Crispy Pickle Cheese Bites
These irresistible Crispy Pickle Cheese Bites are a delightful fusion of tangy dill pickles and savory melted cheese, baked to golden perfection. They offer a satisfying crunch on the outside and a gooey, cheesy interior bursting with flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, game-day snack, or a fun party treat, they're surprisingly simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Servings
Makes approximately 20-24 bites (4-6 servings as an appetizer)
Keywords
Why This Recipe Delivers
- Uniquely addictive flavor combination of tangy pickle and savory cheese.
- Incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute entertaining.
- Bakes to a perfect golden crisp without deep frying.
- A fantastic crowd-pleaser for any gathering or snack craving.
- Versatile as an appetizer, side, or fun finger food.
Ingredients
- 120 grams (1/2 cup) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 120 grams (1/2 cup) shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
- 60 grams (1/4 cup) finely chopped dill pickles, thoroughly drained and patted dry
- 2.5 milliliters (1/2 teaspoon) garlic powder
- 15 milliliters (1 tablespoon) plain breadcrumbs, optional for enhanced crispiness
- Nonstick cooking spray or a sheet of parchment paper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking, or generously spray it with a nonstick cooking spray.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, finely chopped and well-drained dill pickles, and garlic powder. If you're opting for extra crispiness, now is the time to add the breadcrumbs to the mixture.
- Use your hands to thoroughly mix all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed. Then, take small portions of the mixture, about the size of a golf ball, and gently form them into compact, bite-sized balls or flattened discs. Arrange these portions on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each one to allow for even crisping.
- Carefully place the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 10 minutes, or continue baking until the cheese bites achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and appear delightfully crispy around the edges. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Once golden and crispy, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Allow the Crispy Pickle Cheese Bites to cool on the sheet for 5-7 minutes. This crucial cooling period allows them to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle and preventing them from falling apart, ensuring that perfect crispy exterior. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or nonstick cooking spray
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife (for chopping pickles)
- Cutting board
Essential Success Tips
- Ensure the dill pickles are very finely chopped and thoroughly drained. Excess moisture will prevent the bites from crisping properly. Pat them dry with paper towels if needed.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each bite enough space to allow for air circulation and even browning.
- For the best texture, use fresh, pre-shredded cheese. Avoid finely grated parmesan as it can burn too quickly.
- Let the bites cool slightly on the baking sheet after baking. This helps them firm up and become perfectly crispy.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for varied flavor profiles, but ensure they are good melting cheeses.
Professional Cooking Secrets
- To achieve an even crispier exterior without breadcrumbs, you can lightly dust the formed bites with a very small amount of cornstarch before baking.
- For an extra layer of flavor complexity, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a tiny dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
- If you're making a larger batch, bake them in batches to maintain proper oven temperature and ensure consistent crispiness for all bites.
Notes
- These bites are best served warm, shortly after baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a toaster oven or air fryer to regain crispness.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.
- Consider serving with a side of ranch dressing, sriracha mayo, or a creamy dill dip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these Crispy Pickle Cheese Bites ahead of time?
You can prepare the mixture and form the bites up to 24 hours in advance. Store them uncooked on a parchment-lined plate in the refrigerator, covered. Bake just before serving for the best texture.
What kind of pickles work best for this recipe?
Dill pickles are highly recommended for their classic tangy flavor that complements the cheese beautifully. Ensure they are good quality, firm pickles, and not too sweet.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella provide a great balance of flavor and melt, you can experiment with other good melting cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a touch of cream cheese for a richer texture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 180, Protein: 10g, Fat: 14g, Carbs: 3g (per 4 bites, approximate)
Allergy Information
Contains dairy. For a gluten-free version, omit the breadcrumbs (the recipe already makes them optional) and ensure any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free.
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