Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles – Easy Keto Snack & Appetizer Recipe
Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, these Air Fryer Stuffed Pickles are a delicious and easy keto-friendly snack or appetizer. Featuring dill pickles hollowed and filled with a creamy blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and ranch seasoning, then air fried to golden perfection, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch.
- Author: Lisa
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Snack, Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Keto
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 a spicy kick, optional)
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. For extra flavor, add garlic powder and/or smoked paprika if desired.
- Hollow Out the Pickles: Slice each dill pickle in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to carefully scoop out the center flesh, creating a hollow space for stuffing while keeping the pickle shells intact. Pat the hollowed pickles dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy texture.
- Stuff the Pickles: Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into the hollowed-out pickles, filling each cavity evenly but without overfilling to prevent spilling during cooking.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
- Air Fry the Stuffed Pickles: Arrange the stuffed pickles in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the pickles halfway through cooking. Cook until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the pickles from the air fryer and let them cool for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or crushed crackers/panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, if desired. Serve with ranch dressing or honey mustard on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Ensure pickles are patted dry before stuffing to avoid sogginess.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for best flavor and texture.
- Customize the filling by adding diced jalapenos for heat or smoked paprika for smokiness.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, these can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes on a lined baking sheet.
- For a gluten-free option, omit breadcrumbs or use gluten-free alternatives.
- Serving suggestion: Pair with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch or honey mustard.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pickle half
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: air fryer stuffed pickles, keto snack, appetizer, cheesy pickles, easy keto recipe, low carb snack, air fryer recipes