Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles: Easy Keto Snack & Appetizer Recipe
These air fryer stuffed pickles are a delicious and easy keto-friendly snack or appetizer. Hollowed-out dill pickles are filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, cheddar, and ranch seasoning, then air fried to golden perfection. Optional toppings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, and green onions add extra flavor and crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (1 stuffed pickle half per serving)
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 6 large dill pickles (halved lengthwise)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning
Optional Toppings
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for extra flavor)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (for a smoky kick)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- Diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes (for spice)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning. Stir together until the mixture is smooth and well blended. For an extra burst of flavor, incorporate garlic powder or smoked paprika if desired.
- Hollow Out the Pickles: Slice each dill pickle in half lengthwise. Using a small spoon, carefully scoop out the center flesh to create a hollow cavity for stuffing. Pat the pickles dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps prevent sogginess during cooking.
- Stuff the Pickles: Spoon or pipe the prepared cheese mixture evenly into the hollowed-out pickle halves. Make sure the filling is well distributed without overflowing the edges to ensure even cooking and a neat presentation.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Air Fry the Stuffed Pickles: Arrange the stuffed pickles in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through the cooking time to ensure even heat distribution. Cook until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the tops turn golden brown.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the pickles from the air fryer and let them cool for 2 to 3 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped green onions or crushed crackers for an added crunch. Serve them warm with ranch dressing or honey mustard for dipping for a tasty and satisfying appetizer.
Notes
- Patting the pickles dry is essential to prevent sogginess during air frying.
- Use a piping bag or a plastic bag with a corner cut off to neatly fill the pickles with cheese mixture.
- Adding diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes will spice up the filling nicely.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Allow pickles to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
