Cheddar Pickle Fries are a fun twist on regular fries! Imagine crispy, golden fries topped with gooey, melted cheddar cheese and crunchy pickles. Yum!
These fries are perfect for sharing—or not! I love having them as a tasty snack while watching a movie. Who needs popcorn when these cheesy wonders are nearby? 🍟
Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for fries because they’re starchy and get nice and crispy. If you’re short on russets, you can use Yukon Golds or even sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor.
Dill Pickles: I love using dill pickle slices for their crunch and tang. If dill is not your thing, you can try bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter bite.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a great flavor punch. Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick. They melt beautifully too!
Olive Oil: I use olive oil for baking the fries, but vegetable oil works just fine. You can also use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
Dipping Sauce: If you’re not keen on mayonnaise, Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative. You can add a bit of dill for extra flavor, too!
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Fries?
Achieving the ideal crunch in your fries is key for this recipe. Here’s a straightforward method to ensure they come out perfect:
- For **deep frying**, make sure the oil is hot enough—around 350°F works best. If the oil isn’t hot, the fries will just soak it up and become soggy.
- For **baking**, toss the potatoes with oil and seasonings before spreading them out on a baking sheet. Keep them in a single layer, and don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure they crisp up nicely.
- Check on them halfway through baking. Flipping the fries will help them cook evenly on both sides.
Whether you fry or bake, serve the fries hot and enjoy that cheesy goodness!
Cheddar Pickle Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fries:
- 4 medium russet potatoes, cut into fries
- 1 cup dill pickle slices or spears, cut into fries
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Vegetable oil, for frying (if deep frying)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon pickle juice (from jarred pickles)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook, depending on whether you fry or bake your fries. Overall, set aside about 40-45 minutes to get these delicious Cheddar Pickle Fries on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fries:
Start by washing the russet potatoes. Peel them if you prefer; the skin is optional. Then, cut the potatoes into evenly sized fries so they cook evenly. Do the same with your dill pickles, cutting them into fry-sized pieces. This way, every bite will be deliciously crunchy!
2. Cook the Fries:
You can choose to either deep fry or bake the fries, depending on your preference.
- For deep frying: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to around 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the potato fries in batches, frying them until they’re golden and crispy, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Once done, take them out and let them drain on paper towels. Next, fry the pickle fries quickly for about 1-2 minutes to warm them and make them just a little bit crisp. Drain again on paper towels.
- For baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, toss the potato fries with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. In the last 5 minutes of baking, toss in the pickle fries to warm them up!
3. Combine the Fries:
Grab a serving dish and add your crispy potato and pickle fries. Sprinkle the top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
4. Add Cheese:
Now it’s time for the star of the show! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hot fries. The heat from the fries will melt the cheese, making them extra gooey and delicious.
5. Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
While the fries are still hot, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle juice, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until it’s smooth and creamy.
6. Serve:
Finally, drizzle some melted cheddar over the fries or leave it in a nice layer. Serve these Cheddar Pickle Fries immediately with your tangy dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Fries Instead of Fresh Potatoes?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen fries to save time! Just skip the cutting and rinsing steps, and follow the cooking instructions on the package. Cook them according to the directions, then proceed with adding the cheese and pickles as usual!
What Type of Cheese Works Best?
Sharp cheddar is recommended for its bold flavor, but you can also use mozzarella or pepper jack for a milder or spicier option. Just ensure that whatever cheese you choose, it shreds easily and melts well!
How Do I Store Leftover Cheddar Pickle Fries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to get them crispy again, rather than using the microwave, which could make them soggy.
Can I Make the Dipping Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dipping sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before serving to freshen it up!