Easy Pickle Fries

If you’re craving a zesty twist on classic fries, pickle fries are the perfect snack to try. Crisp, tangy, and bursting with flavor, these pickle spears are lightly coated and fried to golden perfection. Whether served as a party appetizer or a quick treat, this easy recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!

What are pickle fries?

Pickle fries are a delicious snack or appetizer made by slicing pickles into thin, fry-like shapes, coating them in a seasoned batter or breading, and frying them until crispy and golden.

They combine the tangy, salty flavor of pickles with the satisfying crunch of fried food.

Popular in restaurants and at fairs, they’re often served with dipping sauces like ranch or spicy aioli for an extra burst of flavor.

Is there a difference between pickle fries and pickle spears?

Pickle fries and pickle spears are more or less the same. The only difference is how the pickles are cut.

Sometimes, fries are thinly sliced strips of pickles, resembling the shape of French fries, often coated in batter or breadcrumbs and fried until crispy.

Pickle spears, on the other hand, are thicker wedges of pickles cut lengthwise from the whole pickle, usually served as-is or breaded and fried for a chunkier, juicier bite.

​Why should I try Pickle Fries?

Pickle fries offer a unique twist on traditional French fries by combining the crispiness of fried batter with the tangy, zesty flavor of pickles.

They’re a fun way to mix up your snacking routine, providing a bold, savory punch that pairs perfectly with dips like ranch or spicy aioli.

For pickle lovers or those seeking a creative alternative to classic sides, pickle fries are an exciting choice that stands out!

Ingredients to make Pickle Fries

The star of the dish, pickles bring their signature tangy and salty flavor. Use dill pickles for a classic taste, and opt for medium-sized pickles to slice into thin fry-like strips. For variety, you can experiment with spicy pickles or bread-and-butter pickles to change the flavor profile.

Flour acts as the base for the coating, helping other ingredients stick to the pickles. All-purpose flour works well for this recipe, but you can use gluten-free flour if needed. It’s often mixed with seasonings to add flavor to the initial dredge.

Coconut milk is a plant-based liquid used as a binding agent for the coating. Its slightly sweet and creamy nature helps balance the tanginess of the pickles. You can substitute with buttermilk or a plant-based milk alternative if preferred.

Breadcrumbs add a crispy, golden texture to the pickle fries. Panko breadcrumbs are particularly great for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. Seasoned breadcrumbs can add another layer of flavor if desired.

Garlic powder gives a savory and aromatic depth to the coating. It’s a convenient way to infuse garlic flavor evenly throughout the mix. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences.

Paprika powder provides a mild sweetness and a touch of smokiness to the seasoning. You can use smoked paprika for a bolder flavor, or sweet paprika for a more subtle taste. It also adds a beautiful reddish hue to the coating.

Onion powder complements the garlic powder by adding a subtle, savory onion flavor. It’s a fine powder that blends easily into the dry mix for even seasoning.

Cayenne pepper adds a spicy kick to the pickle fries, perfect for those who like a touch of heat. Adjust the amount to control the spice level or omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.

These ingredients combine to create a flavorful and crispy coating that perfectly enhances the tangy, juicy pickles inside.

How to make Pickle Fries

First, drain the pickles and cut them to your preferred thickness lengthwise. Dry the cuts with paper towels. Press the paper towels gently on them until excess liquid is absorbed.

Get a large bowl ready and give 1 cup of flour to it. Add the pickle fires and shake until they are lightly coated.

In another bowl mix coconut milk with remaining cup of flour, garlic, onion, and paprika powders, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until you have a batter. Season with a pinch of salt.

Add pickles to that bowl and mix until they are fully coated and transfer them to another bowl with the bread crumbs. 

Shake everything until the fries are fully coated. 

Heat oil in a pan and fry the pickle fries in hot oil for around 3 minutes until they are golden and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Classic with Dips: Serve pickle fries with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, spicy aioli, or honey mustard. Arrange them on a platter with small bowls of dips in the center for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or party snack.

Loaded Pickle Fries: Turn pickle fries into a hearty dish by topping them with melted cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of sour cream or spicy mayo. This “loaded” style makes for a fun twist on nachos or loaded fries.

Side Dish for Burgers or Sandwiches: Pair pickle fries with burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, or sliders as a tangy, crispy alternative to French fries. Serve them alongside coleslaw or potato salad for a complete and flavorful meal.

Other recipes to try

• Green Bean Salad
• Pickle Dip
• Easy Fried Pickles
• Chickpea Mash Green Bean Casserole
• Southern Potato Salad

I hope you love these crispy, tangy pickle fries as much as I do!

If you give them a try, snap a photo and share it on Instagram or Facebook—I’d love to see your creations. Don’t forget to tag me and let me know how they turned out!

And if this recipe hit the spot, leave a comment and a star rating below; your feedback means the world to me and helps others find this delicious snack too.