Bacon Pickle Poppers are a fun and tasty snack! They feature crunchy pickles wrapped in crispy bacon, making them a crunchy and savory treat that’s hard to resist.
These little bites are perfect for parties or movie nights. I love making them because they disappear quickly, and what’s better than bacon making everything more exciting? 🥓💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dill Pickles: Small dill pickles are perfect, but if you prefer a milder flavor, you can use bread and butter pickles instead. They’re sweeter and give a nice contrast to the salty bacon!
Cheese: I suggest using cheddar for a classic taste, or pepper jack if you want a little kick. If lactose is a concern, try dairy-free cream cheese and cheese options. They work surprisingly well!
Bacon: Regular bacon adds great flavor, but turkey bacon is a lighter option. Make sure to choose a thick cut for extra crispness and flavor. I personally love the smoky taste of maple bacon in this recipe.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika give a nice depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is fine—just skip the smoke flavor. You can also add a pinch of cayenne for heat if you like it spicy!
How Do You Stuff Pickles Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing pickles can be tricky, but here’s a simple way to keep it neat. First, make sure to drain your pickles thoroughly. Moisture can cause the filling to slip out later.
- Use a piping bag if you have one; it makes the process much easier.
- You can also cut a small corner from a ziplock bag to make your makeshift piping bag—just fill it with cheese mixture!
- Fill just enough to pack it in tightly, but don’t overfill, as that can cause the filling to ooze out when wrapping.
Taking your time during this step will pay off once you bite into that delicious popper! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Bacon Pickle Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bacon Pickle Poppers:
- 20 small dill pickles (about 2-3 inches long)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack works well)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (optional, for mixing with cheese)
- 20 slices of bacon (cut in half)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Ranch or your favorite dipping sauce (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need an estimated 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40-45 minutes from start to bite!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your Bacon Pickle Poppers will cook evenly and come out crispy and delicious. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on it for even heating.
2. Prepare the Pickles:
Drain the pickles from their brine and carefully pat them dry with paper towels. This is an important step to avoid soggy poppers!
3. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheese, softened cream cheese, cooked bacon bits (if you’re using them), garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix everything thoroughly until well blended. This is the creamy filling that will make your poppers extra special!
4. Stuffing the Pickles:
Now it’s time to stuff those pickles! Use a small spoon or a piping bag to carefully fill each pickle with the cheese mixture. Make sure to fill them well but don’t overstuff them, as that can cause the filling to ooze out.
5. Wrap with Bacon:
Take half a slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed pickle. Ensure the ends are secure by tucking them under the pickle or using a toothpick to hold it in place. This will keep everything together as they cook!
6. Arrange and Bake:
Place the bacon-wrapped pickles on your prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is bubbly. If you’d like an extra crisp, you can broil them for 2-3 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye to prevent burning!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the Bacons Pickle Poppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. If you used toothpicks, remove them before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley to add a pop of color and serve immediately with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your crunchy and cheesy treat!
These Bacon Pickle Poppers are an irresistible snack that combines crunch and creaminess for a delightful bite. Perfect for any gathering or just a fun night in!
Can I Use Other Types of Pickles?
Absolutely! While small dill pickles are traditional, you can switch things up by using bread and butter pickles for a sweeter flavor or even hollowed-out cucumbers for a fresher twist.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for cream cheese, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor. Just keep in mind that the consistency might be a bit different.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through for best results!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prep the Bacon Pickle Poppers in advance by stuffing the pickles and wrapping them in bacon, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them a great option for party planning!
