Cheese Wrapped Pickles are a fun and simple snack! Just take crisp pickles and wrap them in creamy cheese for an exciting treat. It’s a perfect combo of tangy and cheesy!
These little bites are super easy to make, which is great because they’re so addictive! I love to serve them at parties, but honestly, I could munch on them all by myself! 😄
Making these cheese wrapped pickles is a breeze. Just roll the cheese around the pickles, and you’re good to go! They taste amazing, and you’ll be the snack hero among your friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dill Pickles: Choose whole pickles for a more satisfying crunch, or spears for easy wrapping. If you prefer something milder, bread-and-butter pickles work too, offering a sweeter flavor.
Cheese: I love provolone for its smooth melt and mild taste, but mozzarella is also a great choice! For a sharper flavor, consider using cheddar. Just make sure it melts well.
Pepperoni: Adding pepperoni gives a nice flavor kick. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, turkey pepperoni works well too. You can skip it entirely for a vegetarian version.
Spices: Smoked paprika brings a delightful smoky taste, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika or just black pepper will do. Add herbs like oregano for extra flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Cheese Wrapped Pickles Stay Crunchy?
To keep these treats crisp, it’s key to dry the pickles well before wrapping them. Excess moisture can make them soggy during baking. Here’s how:
- Use paper towels to pat the pickles gently after rinsing them. This step is really important!
- Roll tightly so that the cheese clings to the pickle without excess air gaps.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give them space so they can become golden and crispy.
Following these tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of crunchy pickles and gooey, melted cheese!
How to Make Cheese Wrapped Pickles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 to 8 dill pickles, whole or spears
- 6 to 8 slices of pepperoni (or salami, optional)
- 8 to 12 slices of provolone cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing
- Ranch or your favorite dipping sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to snack time, making these cheese wrapped pickles a quick and delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your pickles will be nice and crispy after baking!
2. Prepare the Pickles:
Take your dill pickles and use paper towels to pat them dry. This step helps remove excess moisture, which is key to keeping your cheese wrapped pickles crispy.
3. Assemble the Cheese Wrap:
Lay a slice of provolone cheese flat on your work surface. If the slices are too large, feel free to cut them in half. If you’re adding pepperoni or salami, place a slice over the cheese for extra flavor.
4. Wrap the Pickles:
Take a whole pickle or pickle spear, and place it at one end of the cheese slice. Roll it tightly ensuring the pickle is fully wrapped in cheese (and pepperoni if you’re using it)!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Place your cheese-wrapped pickles seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. This way they won’t stick during baking!
6. Season Them Up:
Lightly spray or brush the tops with a little oil or cooking spray. Then, in a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper, and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the rolls.
7. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. This makes them easier to handle!
9. Enjoy:
Serve your delicious cheese wrapped pickles warm, with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, tangy bites as a delightful snack or appetizer!
Can I Use Other Types of Pickles?
Absolutely! While dill pickles are traditional, you can use bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter flavor, or even spicy pickles if you want some heat. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary based on the pickle type!
Can I Make These Cheese Wrapped Pickles in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time! Assemble the cheese wrapped pickles, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake them right before serving for the best results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (though it’s hard not to eat them all!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they’re warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Air Fry These Instead of Baking?
Definitely! To air fry, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden. This method can give you even crispier results!