If you’re craving a snack that’s outrageously crunchy, spicy, and downright addictive, this Hot Cheeto Fried Pickles Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Dill pickle slices are hugged in a fiery blanket of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, then fried until they reach a glorious crispiness that no ordinary appetizer can match. It’s the kind of bold, playful treat that lights up a party table and vanishes in minutes—don’t say I didn’t warn you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Hot Cheeto Fried Pickles Recipe comes from a handful of punchy, straightforward ingredients. Each one plays an important role, from the tart bite of pickles to the unmistakable heat and crunch of Hot Cheetos. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Dill pickle chips or slices: Use a 16-ounce jar, drained and patted dry—these are the tangy stars of the show!
- Flamin’ Hot Cheetos: Two cups, crushed finely; they bring the signature color, heat, and an ultra-crisp coating.
- All-purpose flour: Half a cup; this helps the egg wash cling to the pickles for a solid crust.
- Large eggs: Two eggs whisked up, for binding the Cheeto coating and adding richness.
- Milk: Two tablespoons, mixed into the eggs for a smooth, even dip.
- Vegetable oil: Enough for frying; choose a neutral oil that can take the heat and let the flavors shine.
- Ranch or your favorite dipping sauce: For serving—cool, creamy dips are the perfect balance for that spicy kick.
How to Make Hot Cheeto Fried Pickles Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Coating Stations
Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with your whisked eggs and milk, and one with those brilliantly red Hot Cheeto crumbs. This assembly line makes all the difference for getting the ultimate crispy, spicy crust on every pickle slice.
Step 2: Dredge and Coat the Pickles
Working in batches, take each pickle slice and dredge it in flour, making sure it’s lightly dusted all over. Next, dunk it into the egg mixture so it’s well coated, then press both sides into the Flamin’ Hot Cheeto crumbs. Don’t be shy—really pack those crumbs on so you get a thick, bold crust!
Step 3: Let the Coating Set
After coating, arrange your pickles on a plate and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This short wait helps the crust stick when frying, so you don’t lose any of that glorious crunch in the oil.
Step 4: Fry to Crispy Perfection
Heat 1 to 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat, aiming for 350°F (175°C). Fry the pickles in small batches for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, until they’re deeply crisp and glowing red. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
With the Hot Cheeto Fried Pickles Recipe, timing is everything—serve these while they’re still piping hot! Pair with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce for the ultimate spicy, tangy, creamy bite.
How to Serve Hot Cheeto Fried Pickles Recipe
Garnishes
Give your platter a little extra flair with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for color contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of sriracha or a dusting of extra crushed Hot Cheetos on top will really wow your spice-loving friends!
Side Dishes
This Hot Cheeto Fried Pickles Recipe is a dream with classic party sides like loaded nachos, crispy wings, or even a cool, crunchy slaw. Pairing with lighter dishes helps balance the heat and makes for a fun, spirited spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try threading individual fried pickles onto skewers for an eye-catching appetizer, or serve them in mini paper cones lined with checkered parchment for street-food style flair. They also look great piled high on a platter with assorted dipping sauces in the center for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers (which is rare!), let the pickles cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay tasty for up to 2 days, though the coating is crispiest right after frying.
Freezing
While not ideal, you can freeze fried pickles by laying them on a parchment-lined tray to freeze individually, then transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat straight from frozen for best results, though the texture may soften a bit.
Reheating
To bring back as much crunch as possible, reheat the Hot Cheeto Fried Pickles Recipe in an oven or air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes until hot and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use whole pickles instead of slices?
Sliced pickles are ideal for even cooking and maximum crunch, but you can quarter whole pickles lengthwise for a similar effect—just adjust frying time as needed.
What’s the best way to crush the Hot Cheetos?
Pop them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin or pulse in a food processor for extra-fine crumbs, which stick better and create a more even crust.
Is there a baked version of this Hot Cheeto Fried Pickles Recipe?
Absolutely! Arrange coated pickles on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes, or air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes for a lighter twist.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely—swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and double-check your pickles and Hot Cheetos for hidden gluten. The results will be just as delicious!
What other dips go well with Hot Cheeto Fried Pickles Recipe?
Besides classic ranch, try blue cheese dressing, spicy mayo, or even a cool avocado crema. The heat from the pickles pairs beautifully with creamy, tangy, or herby dips.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to spice up your snack game, give this Hot Cheeto Fried Pickles Recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears! Whether you’re making them for a party or just treating yourself, these fiery, crispy bites are sure to be a hit. Happy frying!
Print
Hot Cheeto Fried Pickles Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy and spicy Hot Cheeto Fried Pickles offer a crunchy twist on classic fried pickles. Coated in crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, these pickles bring a zesty kick perfect for snacking or entertaining. Quick to prepare and irresistibly flavorful, they serve as a vibrant appetizer or snack that pairs wonderfully with cool ranch or your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz) jar dill pickle chips or slices (drained and patted dry)
- 2 cups Flamin’ Hot Cheetos (crushed into fine crumbs)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Ranch or your favorite dipping sauce (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the coating: Pour the crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos into a shallow bowl or plate. Place flour in a second bowl. In a third bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk thoroughly until combined.
- Coat the pickles: Working in batches, dredge each pickle slice first in the flour, ensuring a light coating. Then dip it into the egg mixture to moisten, and finally press it firmly into the crushed Cheetos, coating both sides well for maximum crunch and flavor.
- Let the coating set: Place the coated pickles on a plate and let them rest for 5–10 minutes. This resting step helps the Cheeto coating to adhere better during frying.
- Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or saucepan, pour 1–2 inches of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately for perfect frying.
- Fry the pickles: Carefully add the pickles to the hot oil in batches. Fry each side for 1–2 minutes until the coating turns crispy and bright red. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain excess oil: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried pickles to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil and keep them crispy.
- Serve: Serve the Hot Cheeto Fried Pickles hot with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce for a spicy, crunchy treat.
Notes
- For a baked alternative, place the coated pickles on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes until crispy.
- You can also air fry the pickles at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes as a healthier option with a similar crunch.
- Use paper towels to pat dry the pickles well before coating to prevent sogginess.
- Adjust frying time slightly depending on thickness of pickle slices for optimal crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6–8 pickles
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
