Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick, simple, and only requires a couple of ingredients. The saltiness of the pickles pairs perfectly with the richness of melted cheese, creating a crunchy, savory bite. They’re naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, making them a guilt-free snack. Plus, you can make them in the oven or air fryer in just minutes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Dill pickle slices
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Shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
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Garlic powder (optional)
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Paprika or cayenne (optional, for heat)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
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Pat pickle slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use an air fryer basket.
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Place small piles of shredded cheese onto the sheet or basket, slightly larger than the pickle slices.
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Top each pile with a pickle slice and a little more cheese.
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Sprinkle with garlic powder or paprika if using.
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Bake or air fry for 8–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted, golden, and crispy.
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Let cool for a few minutes before removing so the cheese firms up.
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Serve warm with ranch, spicy mayo, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 cheesy pickle chips (2–3 servings).
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
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Use mozzarella, pepper jack, or parmesan for different flavors.
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Add a thin slice of jalapeño on top of the pickle for extra heat.
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Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the cheese for a savory twist.
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Make them extra indulgent by layering two pickles between cheese for a “pickle sandwich chip.”
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Try bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter variation.
Storage/Reheating
Cheesy pickle chips are best eaten fresh, as they lose their crispiness when stored. If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) until crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it will make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I make cheesy pickle chips in the microwave?
Yes, but they won’t get as crispy as baking or air frying.
What kind of pickles work best?
Dill pickle chips (slices) work best, but you can also use spicy pickles or bread-and-butter slices.
Can I make these keto-friendly?
Yes, they’re naturally low-carb and keto-friendly since they use only cheese and pickles.
How do I keep them from sticking?
Always use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Can I use block cheese instead of shredded?
Yes, just cut thin slices to place under and over the pickles.
Do cheesy pickle chips get crispy?
Yes, the cheese crisps up as it bakes or air fries. Let them cool slightly before serving so they firm up.
Can I use flavored cheeses?
Absolutely—smoked cheddar, jalapeño jack, or garlic cheddar all add extra flavor.
Can I make these ahead of time?
They’re best fresh, but you can prep pickles and cheese in advance and assemble just before baking.
What dips pair well with cheesy pickle chips?
Ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or honey mustard are great options.
Can I layer more cheese for a thicker chip?
Yes, but increase the cooking time slightly to ensure the cheese crisps properly.
Conclusion
Cheesy Pickle Chips are an easy, crave-worthy snack that delivers bold pickle flavor wrapped in golden, melted cheese. Perfect for parties, game days, or a quick low-carb bite, they’re a simple recipe that’s guaranteed to impress. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce and watch them disappear fast.
Cheesy Pickle Chips
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Cheesy Pickle Chips are tangy dill pickle slices baked or air-fried with melted cheese until golden and crispy. A quick, low-carb, and keto-friendly snack or appetizer that’s perfect for parties or game day.
- Author: Catherine
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 cheesy pickle chips (2–3 servings)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking or Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12 dill pickle slices
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or other melting cheese)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp paprika or cayenne (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat pickle slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or prepare the air fryer basket.
- Place small piles of shredded cheese slightly larger than the pickle slices on the sheet or basket.
- Top each pile with a pickle slice and sprinkle more cheese on top.
- Season lightly with garlic powder or paprika if using.
- Bake or air fry for 8–12 minutes, until cheese is melted, golden, and crisp.
- Allow to cool for 2–3 minutes before removing so the cheese firms up.
- Serve warm with ranch, spicy mayo, or dipping sauce of choice.
Notes
Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or parmesan for variety.Add jalapeño slices for extra spice.Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor.Use bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter twist.Best enjoyed fresh; leftovers can be stored up to 2 days in the fridge and reheated in an oven or air fryer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 pickle chips
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg