Save These Bacon-Wrapped Pickles are a savory, tangy appetizer featuring crisp dill pickles wrapped in smoky bacon and baked to golden perfection. They are quick to prepare and serve as the perfect snack for parties or game days.
Save With a total time of only 30 minutes, these treats are an easy way to impress guests. The combination of the warm, crispy bacon exterior and the juicy, vinegary crunch of the dill pickle creates a crowd-pleasing snack that is hard to resist.
Ingredients
- 6 large dill pickles (whole, not spears)
- 12 slices bacon (regular cut, not thick-cut)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack.
- Step 2
- Pat the pickles dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Step 3
- Slice each pickle in half lengthwise to yield 12 halves.
- Step 4
- If desired, sprinkle the pickle halves lightly with black pepper and smoked paprika.
- Step 5
- Wrap each pickle half with a slice of bacon, slightly overlapping the edges. If needed, secure the bacon with a toothpick.
- Step 6
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped pickles seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 7
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the bacon is golden brown and crispy.
- Step 8
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks if used.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the bacon gets as crispy as possible, it is essential to pat the pickles dry thoroughly with paper towels before wrapping. Using a wire rack on top of your baking sheet allows the heat to circulate underneath, preventing the bottom from becoming soggy.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter version, you can substitute traditional pork bacon with turkey bacon. You can also experiment with the flavor profile by adding a dusting of black pepper or smoked paprika to the pickles before they are wrapped.
Serviervorschläge
These appetizers pair exceptionally well with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. For those who enjoy a sweet and salty combination, try brushing the bacon lightly with maple syrup just before putting them into the oven.
Save Serve these warm and enjoy the satisfying crunch. Whether as a party starter or a late-night snack, these bacon-wrapped pickles are guaranteed to be a favorite.
Common Questions
- → Why is it important to pat the pickles dry before wrapping?
Excess moisture on pickles prevents the bacon from crisping properly and can make the final dish soggy. Patting them thoroughly with paper towels ensures the bacon becomes crispy and golden during baking.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the bacon-wrapped pickles up to 4 hours in advance. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
- → What should I do if the bacon isn't crispy after 22 minutes?
Extend the baking time by 2-3 minutes and check for doneness. The oven temperature and bacon thickness affect cooking time. If using thick-cut bacon, plan for additional baking time.
- → Are there dipping sauce alternatives besides ranch or blue cheese?
Absolutely. Try sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, barbecue sauce, or a spicy mustard. The tangy pickle flavor pairs well with creamy, spicy, or smoky dipping sauces.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled bacon-wrapped pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
- → Can I use pickle spears instead of whole pickles?
Yes, pickle spears work well. Wrap them individually with shorter bacon strips. Reduce baking time to 15-18 minutes since they're thinner and will cook faster.