I’ve always been a fan of snacks that hit all the right notes—crispy, salty, tangy, and just a little indulgent. So when I discovered bacon-wrapped pickles, I knew I had found a winning combo. The crunch of the pickle, paired with the smoky richness of bacon, is a flavor experience that keeps me coming back for more. I love how easy it is to make them in the air fryer, too—no deep frying, no mess, just golden, crispy perfection in minutes.
Every time I whip these up, friends and family are instantly intrigued. The aroma of bacon sizzling around tangy pickles is irresistible, and the bite-sized portions make them perfect for parties, game days, or even a fun weeknight snack. I enjoy experimenting with the seasonings and dipping sauces too, giving each batch a little twist that keeps this simple recipe exciting and fresh.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Pickles: I like to use dill pickles because their tangy and slightly sour flavor contrasts beautifully with the smoky, salty bacon. You can use whole pickles cut into spears or slices depending on your preference, but make sure they are firm so they hold up while cooking.
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best for this recipe because it crisps nicely in the air fryer without curling too much. The smoky, savory flavor of bacon is the star of the show, adding richness and a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Flour (optional): A light dusting of flour can help the bacon stick better to the pickles and create a slight crispiness on the edges. While optional, it adds a subtle texture that pairs well with the tender pickle inside.
Toothpicks: Toothpicks are essential to hold the bacon securely around the pickles. They make handling easier and ensure that everything cooks evenly in the air fryer.
Seasonings (optional): I often sprinkle a little black pepper, garlic powder, or smoked paprika on the bacon before wrapping to boost the flavor. While the bacon and pickles are already delicious, seasonings can elevate the taste and make each bite more flavorful.
Ingredients List
- 10 dill pickle spears
- 10 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional)
- Toothpicks
- Seasonings: black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Pickles
Step 1: Prep the Pickles
Pat your pickle spears dry with a paper towel. This helps the bacon stick better and prevents excess moisture from making them soggy in the air fryer.
Step 2: Wrap the Pickles
If using flour, lightly dust each pickle spear. Then, take a slice of bacon and wrap it around the pickle, securing it with a toothpick. Make sure the bacon fully covers the pickle for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures the bacon starts crisping immediately when placed inside.
Step 4: Cook the Pickles
Arrange the bacon-wrapped pickles in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and golden.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the pickles from the air fryer. Let them cool slightly, then serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or spicy mayo.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use thick-cut bacon for a crispier, more flavorful wrap.
- Pat the pickles dry before wrapping to avoid sogginess.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—give each pickle space to crisp evenly.
- Experiment with seasonings on the bacon to create unique flavor profiles.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; the bacon may soften if left sitting too long.
FAQs
Can I use sweet pickles instead of dill?
Yes! Sweet pickles will give a different flavor profile, but the bacon still complements them well.
Do I need to pre-cook the bacon?
No, the bacon cooks perfectly in the air fryer alongside the pickles. Pre-cooking is unnecessary.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep them ahead, but for the crispiest bacon, cook them right before serving.
What dipping sauces go well with this snack?
Ranch, spicy mayo, honey mustard, or a garlic aioli all pair wonderfully.
Can I freeze these for later?
Yes, wrap cooked pickles individually and freeze. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.