Mac and Cheese Fried Pickle (Printable Version)
Golden-fried pickle rounds stuffed with mac and cheese, offering a crispy bite and creamy center.
# What You'll Need:
→ Mac and Cheese
01 - 1 cup elbow macaroni
02 - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
05 - 1 cup whole milk
06 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - Salt and pepper, to taste
→ Pickle Rings
08 - 4 large whole dill pickles
09 - Paper towels, for drying
→ Breading
10 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
11 - 2 large eggs
12 - 1 tablespoon milk
13 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
14 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
15 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
16 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Frying
17 - Vegetable oil, for deep frying
# Directions:
01 - Boil elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
02 - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until bubbling. Slowly whisk in whole milk and continue stirring until thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
03 - Add cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the sauce. Stir until smooth, then combine with cooked macaroni. Spread mixture on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate 20 minutes until firm.
04 - Slice whole dill pickles into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Remove the centers with a small cutter or knife to form rings. Dry thoroughly with paper towels.
05 - Pack chilled mac and cheese tightly into the hollow centers of each pickle ring. Arrange stuffed rings on a tray and freeze for at least 15 minutes to set.
06 - Set up three bowls: flour; beaten eggs mixed with 1 tablespoon milk; and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Coat rings in flour, dip into egg mixture, then press into panko blend until fully covered.
07 - Heat vegetable oil in a deep heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F. Fry the breaded rings in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
08 - Enjoy hot with your preferred dipping sauce.
# Additional Tips::
01 -
- Combines two favorite comfort foods in one bite
- Perfect finger food for parties and entertaining
02 -
- Contains common allergens like dairy eggs and wheat
- Check pickle brand ingredient labels for added spices if sensitive
03 -
- Try using smoked gouda pepper jack or mozzarella for fun cheese variations
- For a spicy version add chopped jalapeños to the mac and cheese