Crispy, tangy, and oozing with cheesy goodness, these Crispy Cheddar Pickle Fries are the ultimate keto-friendly snack or appetizer. Whether youβre a pickle enthusiast or a cheese aficionado, these baked delights are a quick and satisfying recipe. With their crunchy exterior and burst of flavor in every bite, theyβre a hit for parties, game nights, or simply indulging in a guilt-free snack. Serve with your favorite dip for an added kick of deliciousness!
Jump to RecipeWhy Youβll Love This Recipe
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: At just 2g of carbs per serving, this recipe fits perfectly into a keto or low-carb diet.
Simple Ingredients: No fancy items neededβjust a jar of pickles, cheese, and a few pantry staples.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, these fries are perfect for last-minute cravings.
Versatile: Customize the flavors to suit your taste, from spicy jalapeΓ±os to savory smoked paprika.
Baked, Not Fried: A healthier alternative to deep-fried snacks, but just as crispy and satisfying.
Ingredients & Their Health Benefits
Ingredients
- 1 jar (16 oz) of pickles (any variety or shape)
- Low in calories and carbs, pickles are packed with probiotics for gut health. Their tangy flavor adds a zing to every bite.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Rich in protein and calcium, cheddar cheese contributes to strong bones and muscle health while adding a savory, cheesy flavor.
- 1 large egg
- A powerhouse of protein and essential vitamins, eggs help bind the ingredients while boosting the nutritional profile.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- This optional ingredient ensures a light and crispy texture.
- Seasoning of your choice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
- Optional 1 tablespoon fresh dill: Complements the tanginess of the pickles with herbal notes.
How to Make Crispy Cheddar Pickle Fries
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it. - Prepare the Pickles:
- Blend the pickles in a food processor until finely chopped.
- Transfer the blended pickles to a clean towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out all excess moistureβthis step is key for crispy fries.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained pickles, shredded cheddar cheese, egg, baking powder, and seasonings. Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together.
- Shape the Fries:
- Scoop small portions of the mixture and form them into fry shapes. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the fries are golden and crispy. For extra crunch, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve hot with your favorite keto-friendly dipping sauce, such as ranch or spicy aioli.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Combo: Pair with ranch dressing for a creamy dip.
- Zesty Option: Serve with a side of spicy buffalo sauce.
- Light Meal: Add a fresh green salad to create a balanced plate.
Tips for Success
- Drain the Pickles Well: Removing excess moisture ensures crispy fries.
- Custom Seasonings: Experiment with flavors like cumin, cayenne, or onion powder.
- Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Variations & Modifications
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free shredded cheese for a lactose-free option.
- Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeΓ±os to the mixture for a burst of heat.
- Veggie Swap: Replace pickles with zucchini for a milder flavor profile.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Prep Ahead: Blend and drain the pickles up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Freeze for Later: Shape the fries and freeze them on a baking sheet. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition Information
Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
---|---|
Calories | 120 kcal |
Fat | 9g |
Carbohydrates | 2g |
Protein | 6g |
Conclusion
Crispy Cheddar Pickle Fries are the perfect snack to satisfy your cravings while sticking to your healthy eating goals. With their irresistible crunch, tangy flavor, and cheesy goodness, theyβre sure to become a household favorite.
Whether youβre entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, these low-carb fries deliver big on flavor without the guilt.
So, preheat your oven and get ready to whip up a batch of these mouthwatering pickle fries. Donβt forget your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy every crunchy bite!
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Crispy Cheddar Pickle Fries: A Tangy & Cheesy Low-Carb Snack
Course: SnacksCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes20
minutes120
kcalIngredients
1 jar of pickles (any kind/shape)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 large egg
seasoning of choice (e.g., salt, pepper, garlic powder)
1 tsp baking powder
- Optional Add-Ins
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
- Blend the pickles in a food processor until finely chopped.
- Transfer the blended pickles to a mixing bowl and squeeze out all excess moisture using a cheesecloth or paper towels.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, egg, seasoning, and baking powder (if using) to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into fry shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch.
Notes
- β Ensure all moisture is squeezed out of the pickles to avoid soggy fries.
β Adjust seasoning to taste for a personalized flavor.
β For extra crispiness, broil the fries for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
β Use different types of cheese for varied flavors, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.