Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles
If you’re a fan of bold, tangy, and cheesy snacks, these Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles are going to hit the spot.
Crunchy pickle halves are filled with a creamy, savory cheese mixture and crisped to perfection in the air fryer.
They’re quick to make, full of flavor, and make an ideal appetizer or party snack!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
Big Flavor, Low Effort: Creamy, cheesy, tangy, and savory all in one bite.
Air Fryer Friendly: No need to deep fry — crispy edges without the grease.
Great for Keto & Low-Carb Diets: Pickle-based and packed with protein-rich filling.
Perfect Party Snack: Crowd-pleasing appetizer for game day, potlucks, or gatherings.
Key Ingredients
Large Pickles: The perfect crunchy, tangy vessel for the cheesy filling.
Cream Cheese: Soft and creamy base that binds everything together.
Ranch Seasoning: Adds a zesty herb flavor with minimal effort.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melty, gooey, and sharp — a must-have for comfort.
Turkey Bacon Bits: Adds smoky flavor and a bit of protein crunch.
Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles
Ingredients:
6 large pickles
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tbsp ranch seasoning
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup turkey bacon bits
Instructions:
Prep the Pickles:
Slice the pickles in half lengthwise.
Use a small spoon to scoop out the seeds, creating a hollow center.
Gently pat each half dry with a paper towel to get rid of excess moisture.
Mix the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar, and turkey bacon bits.
Stir until everything is well blended and creamy.
Stuff the Pickles:
Fill each pickle half with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
Spread the filling evenly to the edges.
Air Fry:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange the stuffed pickles in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap.
Air fry for 6–8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Cool & Serve:
Let the pickles cool for a minute before serving.
Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce!
Recipe Notes
Dry the Pickles Well: After scooping out the centers, pat the pickles dry thoroughly with paper towels. This helps the filling stick and prevents sogginess during air frying.
Use Softened Cream Cheese: Let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before mixing. This makes blending smoother and easier.
Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pack them full, overstuffing can cause the filling to spill over or burn in the air fryer. A heaping spoonful per half is usually enough.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Starting with a hot air fryer ensures even cooking and helps the filling brown nicely on top.
Watch the Cook Time: Air fryers can vary by brand and size. Start checking at the 6-minute mark to avoid overcooking or burning the cheese.
Serve Warm: These are best enjoyed fresh and warm when the cheese is gooey and the pickles are crisp on the outside.
Optional Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Nutrition Information
(per serving, based on 6 servings):
Calories: 120 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 10g | Carbs: 2g | Fiber: 0g | Sugar: 1g
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Air Fryer
Knife & spoon (for slicing and scooping)
Mixing bowl
Spoon or piping bag
Paper towels
Recipe Swaps & Variations
No turkey bacon? Use regular bacon bits, crumbled sausage, or leave it out for vegetarian.
Add heat: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
Make it spicy ranch: Use spicy ranch seasoning for a kick.
Cheese swap: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for different flavor profiles.
Add crunch: Sprinkle crushed pork rinds or breadcrumbs on top before air frying.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes to regain crispiness.
Not ideal for freezing, as pickles can get mushy after thawing.
Food & Drink Pairings
Dips: Ranch, spicy mayo, chipotle aioli, or blue cheese dressing.
Mains: Serve alongside burgers, grilled chicken, or BBQ dishes.
Drinks: Pairs well with cold beer, hard seltzers, or a Bloody Mary.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use smaller pickles instead of large ones?
Yes, just make sure they’re thick enough to scoop and hold filling. Baby dill pickles are too small, but medium ones work well.
Are these pickles spicy?
Not by default, but you can make them spicy by adding hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the filling.
Can I bake them instead of air frying?
Yes! Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare and stuff the pickles ahead, then air fry just before serving for best results.
Are they keto-friendly?
Yes! All the ingredients are low in carbs, making them perfect for a keto or low-carb lifestyle.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Yes, preheating helps the pickles cook evenly and improves crispiness.
How do I keep the filling from sliding out during air frying?
Don’t overfill and try gently pressing the filling down so it stays nestled in the hollow.
Can I use whipped cream cheese?
Yes, whipped cream cheese works well and is easier to spread.
What kind of pickles work best?
Whole dill pickles or large kosher pickles are ideal for slicing and stuffing.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just cook in batches so the pickles aren’t crowded in the air fryer.