There’s something utterly delightful about the combination of crispy bacon and tangy dill pickles that brings an instant smile to my face. Picture this: it’s a cozy evening. The kids are in the living room, a light breeze is coming through the window, and I’m whipping up a snack that’s sure to be a hit. Enter Bacon Wrapped Pickles — a fun, flavor-packed treat that transforms an ordinary pickle into an irresistible appetizer.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a casual get-together, and it quickly became a staple in our household. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for parties or simply as a snack while binge-watching your favorite show. Plus, who doesn’t love a recipe that pairs perfectly with ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor? Prepare to impress your friends and family (and maybe even yourself) with this simple yet delicious recipe that combines ease with incredible taste!
Why are Bacon Wrapped Pickles a Must-Try?
Irresistible combination of flavors: The crispy bacon pairs perfectly with the zesty tang of dill pickles, creating a snack that’s full of delightful contrasts. Quick preparation time means you can whip these up in just 30 minutes, allowing for more time to enjoy them! Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s game day or a family movie night, these pickles will have everyone coming back for more. And if you’re looking for more tasty bites, check out our collection of easy party appetizers. Oh-so-simple to make: With just three ingredients and minimal cooking skills required, anyone can shine in the kitchen with this recipe!
Bacon Wrapped Pickles Ingredients
• Gather everything you need for a crispy delight!
For the Bacon Wrap
- Dill pickle spears – These should be well-drained and dried to ensure the bacon gets crispy.
- Bacon slices – Choose thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crispiness!
For the Dipping Sauce
- Ranch dressing – A delicious optional side that complements the bacon and pickles beautifully, enhancing the flavor of your Bacon Wrapped Pickles.
With these ingredients ready, you’re one step closer to serving up a snack that’s sure to wow everyone around you!
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Pickles
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Preheat your oven to 425°F and place a wire cooling rack on top of a rimmed baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate evenly for perfectly crispy bacon!
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Dry the dill pickle spears with a paper towel, ensuring they’re moisture-free. Next, wrap each pickle with a slice of bacon, covering it tightly, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake those beauties in the top third of your oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon turns golden brown and crispy. The mouthwatering aroma will fill your kitchen!
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Cool the Bacon Wrapped Pickles for 5 minutes before serving. Pair them with ranch dressing on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an elegant touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Bacon Wrapped Pickles Variations
Customize your Bacon Wrapped Pickles with these fun and flavorful ideas that will take your snacking experience to the next level!
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño slices to the pickle before wrapping for a zesty heat that will awaken your taste buds. The combination of bacon and jalapeños creates a deliciously fiery bite!
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Cheesy Delight: Place a thin slice of cheese inside the pickle spear before wrapping. As it melts during baking, it provides a creamy surprise that elevates the classic flavor.
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Herb Infusion: Sprinkle some finely chopped fresh herbs, like dill or rosemary, on the bacon before wrapping it around the pickle. The aroma and flavor of the herbs will elevate every nibble!
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Sweet & Savory: Brush a little maple syrup over the bacon before wrapping for a sweet contrast to the salty, crispy goodness of the bacon. It adds a delicious twist that’s truly irresistible.
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BBQ Twist: Use a bit of your favorite BBQ sauce on the bacon before wrapping for a smoky sweetness. This variation will impress anyone who loves that classic BBQ flavor.
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Low-Carb: Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon or even prosciutto for a lighter option. Both alternatives maintain the savory flavor while offering a healthier profile.
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Vegan Version: Replace the bacon with plant-based bacon or thinly sliced eggplant marinated in your favorite spices. While the texture differs, the taste can still be a crowd-pleaser!
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Extra Crunch: Coat the bacon-wrapped pickles in crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs before baking for an extra crispy exterior. This delightful crunch is sure to be a hit!
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Wrapped Pickles are perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, allowing you to prep in advance and save precious time! You can wrap the pickle spears with bacon up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply prepare them as per the recipe but hold off on baking. Once wrapped, arrange them on a baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. To maintain their delicious quality, it’s essential to keep them dry to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven and bake as directed. This ensures you have mouthwatering Bacon Wrapped Pickles ready with minimal effort, so you can enjoy the company of your friends and family without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Wrapped Pickles
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, consume within 2 hours to maintain optimal flavor and safety.
Fridge: Store leftover Bacon Wrapped Pickles in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked pickles on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
Reheating: To reheat, place your Bacon Wrapped Pickles in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they stay crispy. Enjoy your delicious snacks!
Expert Tips for Bacon Wrapped Pickles
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Bacon choice matters: Use thick-cut bacon for a perfect balance of flavor and crispiness. Thin bacon can overcook and get too chewy.
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Dry pickles thoroughly: Patting the pickle spears dry is crucial to avoid sogginess, ensuring your Bacon Wrapped Pickles have that desirable crunch.
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Even wrapping: Make sure to wrap each pickle evenly with bacon to achieve uniform cooking and crispiness. Overlapping can cause uneven results.
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Watch the cooking time: Keep an eye on the pickles as they bake. Ovens can vary, and you don’t want your bacon to burn!
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to sprinkle your favorite spices or herbs on the bacon before baking for an added flavor twist to your Bacon Wrapped Pickles.
What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Pickles?
Imagine a lively gathering filled with laughter, where crispy snacks bring everyone together over joy and flavor.
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Creamy Mac and Cheese: The rich and gooey pasta offers a comforting contrast to the crispy bacon, making every bite a delight.
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Zesty Coleslaw: This fresh and tangy side balances the savory richness of the pickles, adding a crunchy texture that complements the dish perfectly.
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Stuffed Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, these spicy bites will resonate well with the smoky flavor of the bacon, creating a flavorful explosion.
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Classic Potato Salad: A cool and creamy potato salad provides a soothing counterpart to the warmth of the pickles, enriching your snack experience.
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Homemade Guacamole: The smoothness of avocado in guacamole pairs beautifully with the crunch of bacon and pickles, delivering a wonderful contrast.
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Cold Beer or Sparkling Cider: A refreshing drink option that cuts through the richness of the bacon, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your gathering.
Pairing these delightful sides with your Bacon Wrapped Pickles will elevate your culinary evening, ensuring every guest leaves with a full heart (and belly)!
Bacon Wrapped Pickles Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best dill pickles for this recipe?
Absolutely! For optimal results, choose dill pickles that are firm and without dark spots or soft textures. The crunchier the pickle, the better the contrast you’ll achieve against the crispy bacon. I recommend picking spears that are fresh and well-drained to ensure a delightful bite!
What is the best way to store leftover Bacon Wrapped Pickles?
Very! To keep your Bacon Wrapped Pickles fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to bring back that appealing crunch.
Can I freeze Bacon Wrapped Pickles?
Yes, you can! To freeze, arrange the cooked pickles on a baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat them, bake directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
What should I do if my bacon isn’t cooking evenly?
Don’t worry! If you notice that the bacon isn’t cooking evenly, make sure to wrap it tightly around the pickles without overlaps. Also, reposition the baking sheet midway through cooking to ensure even heat distribution. If needed, you can rotate the pickles for consistent crispiness.
Are Bacon Wrapped Pickles safe for my pets?
No, bacon can be high in fat and sodium, which may not be healthy for pets when consumed in large amounts. It’s best to keep these treats as a human-only snack! If you’re looking for a pet-friendly treat, consider offering plain, unsalted pickles in moderation.
How do I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions, like gluten-free?
You can absolutely customize! Luckily, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but if you’re considering dietary restrictions like lower sodium or less fat, you can use turkey bacon or a reduced-sodium kind. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly when using different types of bacon. Enjoy experimenting!
Crispy Bacon Wrapped Pickles: Your New Favorite Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and place a wire cooling rack on top of a rimmed baking sheet.
- Dry the dill pickle spears with a paper towel, wrap each pickle with a slice of bacon, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes, until the bacon is golden brown and crispy.
- Cool the Bacon Wrapped Pickles for 5 minutes before serving.
- Pair with ranch dressing for an extra burst of flavor.