Crispy Fried Pickles with Tangy Dipping Sauce

Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving something salty and satisfying, fried pickles are the ultimate shareable snack. This almost-famous version balances spicy, tangy, and crispy in every bite with a creamy dipping sauce that takes it over the top. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make at home with simple pantry ingredients.

What You’ll Need

For the sauce:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon drained horseradish

• 2 teaspoons ketchup

• 1/4 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

For the pickles:

• Peanut or vegetable oil (for frying)

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 3/4 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• Kosher salt

• 2 cups sliced dill pickles, well drained

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, horseradish, ketchup, and Cajun seasoning. Set aside to let the flavors blend while you fry the pickles.

2. Prepare the oil
Heat about 1 inch of peanut or vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Use a deep-fry thermometer to bring the oil to 375°F.

3. Make the batter
In a large bowl, whisk together:

• 1/2 cup flour

• 1 3/4 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/2 cup water

Whisk until the batter is smooth and lump-free.

4. Dry the pickles
Spread the pickle slices out on paper towels and gently pat dry. This step is important for achieving a crisp coating.

5. Batter and fry
Working in two batches:

• Toss half the pickles in the batter until fully coated.

• Lift them out one at a time with a slotted spoon, letting the excess batter drip off.

• Carefully lower into the hot oil.

• Fry for 1–2 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

• Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on fresh paper towels.

Repeat with the remaining pickles, making sure the oil returns to 375°F between batches.

6. Serve immediately
Pair your golden, crispy pickles with the creamy-spicy dipping sauce for the perfect bite.

Tips for Success

• Use cold pickle slices to help the batter stick better.

• Keep the oil at a steady 375°F to avoid greasy or undercooked pickles.

• Serve hot and fresh fried pickles are best right out of the oil.

Why Fried Pickles Are So Addictive

The combo of salty, sour pickles with a crunchy, spiced coating hits every craving at once. The dipping sauce creamy with a kick adds just the right balance. It’s no surprise fried pickles are a popular bar food and party favorite.

Looking to lighten it up? Try using an air fryer for a crispier, lower-oil version. Or swap out regular mayo in the sauce for a Greek yogurt base.

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