Dinner

Crispy Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles Recipe

Name: Crispy Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 whole dill pickles (large, halved lengthwise and cored); 1 block cream cheese (softened, about 8 oz); 2 tbsp cooked bacon (crumbled or turkey bacon); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp chopped chives (or green onions); 1 pinch salt and pepper (to taste); 0.5 tsp red chili flakes (optional); 0.5 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs (beaten); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray (as needed for air fryer)

BySophie Carsel October 20, 2025October 20, 2025

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Introduction

Crispy Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles are a crunchy, savory treat perfect for weekend snacking. Stuffed with a creamy bacon and chive filling, these pickles come out golden and irresistible using the air fryer. They’re quick to make and sure to become a favorite appetizer.

This image shows a close-up of several slices of baked zucchini topped with a golden brown crust of melted cheese and crispy breadcrumbs, sprinkled with bright green chopped chives and small reddish bits of bacon. The zucchini slices have a soft, creamy filling inside their green skin, giving a mix of smooth and crunchy textures. They are stacked on a round white bowl, and to the side is a small white bowl of creamy dipping sauce with green chive pieces on top. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 whole dill pickles (large, halved lengthwise and cored)
1 block cream cheese (softened)
2 tbsp cooked bacon (crumbled or turkey bacon)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp chopped chives (or green onions)
1 pinch salt and pepper (to taste)
0.5 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
0.5 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs (beaten)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray (as needed for air fryer)

Instructions

Step 1: Pat the pickles dry using paper towels and slice them in half lengthwise. Use a melon baller to scoop out the center of each half.
Step 2: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, chives, salt, pepper, and red chili flakes (if using) until smooth.
Step 3: Fill each pickle half with the cream cheese mixture, leveling the top.
Step 4: Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
Step 5: Coat each stuffed pickle first in flour, then in egg, then in breadcrumbs. Press gently for an even coating.
Step 6: Spray each piece with olive oil and place in a preheated air fryer at 375°F (190°C).
Step 7: Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, double coat the pickles by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps before air frying.
Substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option or omit for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix for a smoky flavor twist.
Serve with ranch or a spicy mayo dip for added flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

How to Serve

A close-up of several baked pickle halves arranged in a dark bowl, each slice having three visible layers: a crispy golden-brown breadcrumb topping with small bits of reddish bacon and bright green chopped chives scattered on top, a creamy, melted cheese layer beneath that, and the dark green pickle skin forming the outer edge. To the side inside the bowl is a white bowl filled with a light tan dipping sauce sprinkled with green chives. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular pickles instead of dill?

While dill pickles provide a traditional tangy flavor that pairs well with the creamy filling, you can use regular pickles if you prefer a milder taste. Just make sure they are firm and not too juicy to avoid sogginess.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the stuffed pickles in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy. Frying in oil is also an option but results in a greasier snack.