Bacon Wrapped Pickle
Bacon Wrapped Pickle is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 70 calories per serving. Recipe by Right Way BBQ on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 7 min | Total: 22 min
Cost: $7.32 total, $1.83 per serving
Ingredients
- 6 whole Dill Pickles (large, cut lengthwise into halves)
- 6 strips Bacon (thick‑cut, cut in half if too long)
- 1 teaspoon Seasoning Blend (black pepper, garlic powder, paprika or your favorite BBQ seasoning)
- 0.25 cup Dipping Sauce (ranch, blue cheese, or spicy mustard)
Instructions
Slice and Prepare Pickles
Wash the pickles, pat them dry, and cut each pickle lengthwise into halves to create a pocket for the bacon.
Time: PT2M
Season Pickles
Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over the cut sides of the pickles.
Time: PT1M
Wrap Pickles with Bacon
Take a half strip of bacon and wrap it tightly around each pickle half, securing with a toothpick if needed.
Time: PT4M
Preheat Grill
Heat the grill to medium‑high, about 375°F (190°C).
Time: PT3M
Temperature: 375°F
Grill Bacon‑Wrapped Pickles
Place the wrapped pickles on the grill seam side down. Grill for 3‑4 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crisp and browned.
Time: PT7M
Temperature: 375°F
Rest and Serve
Remove from the grill, let rest for 1 minute, then serve with your chosen dipping sauce.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 70
- Protein
- 4g
- Carbohydrates
- 2g
- Fat
- 5g
- Fiber
- 0.5g
Dietary info: Gluten-Free, Keto-friendly, Low-Carb
Allergens: Pork
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Dill Pickles: gherkin pickles, bread and butter pickles
- Instead of Bacon: turkey bacon, prosciutto
- Instead of Seasoning Blend: cajun seasoning, old bay seasoning
- Instead of Dipping Sauce: blue cheese dip, honey mustard
Equipment Needed
- Grill
- Tongs
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Small Bowl (optional)
- Toothpicks (optional)
- Serving Plate (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Dry the pickles thoroughly before wrapping.
- Wrap the bacon tightly around each pickle half.
- Grill until bacon is crisp without burning.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use thick‑cut bacon for a meatier bite and better flavor.
- Add a light drizzle of honey or maple syrup during the last minute of grilling for a sweet glaze.
- Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
Troubleshooting
Bacon is not crisp after grilling.
Increase grill time by 1‑2 minutes or lower the heat slightly and finish with a quick sear on high heat.
Pickles release too much water and the bacon becomes soggy.
Pat the pickle halves dry with paper towels before seasoning and wrapping.
Bacon unwraps during grilling.
Wrap the bacon tighter and secure with a toothpick or small skewer.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Re‑heat briefly on the grill or in a skillet.
Freezer: Not recommended; bacon loses crispness after freezing.
Room temperature: Best served immediately; can sit at room temperature for up to 30 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Wrap the pickles and keep them refrigerated for up to 4 hours before grilling.
- Season the pickles ahead of time and cover loosely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of bacon‑wrapped pickles in American BBQ cuisine?
Bacon‑wrapped pickles are a classic Southern bar snack that emerged in the 1970s as a way to combine the tang of dill pickles with the smoky richness of bacon. They became popular at backyard cookouts and sports‑bar menus, embodying the American love of indulgent, finger‑food appetizers.
How are bacon‑wrapped pickles traditionally served in the Southern United States?
In the South, they are usually served hot off the grill on a platter with a side of ranch or blue‑cheese dressing for dipping. They are often presented as a starter at BBQ gatherings, picnics, and tailgate parties.
What occasions or celebrations are bacon‑wrapped pickles traditionally associated with in American culture?
They are a staple at summer barbecues, Fourth of July celebrations, football tailgates, and casual get‑togethers where finger foods are preferred. Their quick prep makes them ideal for spontaneous gatherings.
What other American BBQ dishes pair well with bacon‑wrapped pickles?
They complement smoked ribs, pulled pork sliders, grilled chicken wings, and classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and corn on the cob. The salty crunch balances richer meats and sweet sauces.
What makes bacon‑wrapped pickles special or unique in American BBQ cuisine?
The combination of tangy, briny pickle flesh with crisp, smoky bacon creates a contrast of textures and flavors that is both addictive and satisfying. It showcases the BBQ tradition of wrapping foods (like oysters or shrimp) in bacon for added flavor.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for bacon‑wrapped pickles versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients are thick‑cut pork bacon, dill pickles, and a simple seasoning of pepper and garlic powder. Acceptable substitutes include turkey bacon for a leaner option, gherkin or bread‑and‑butter pickles for different tang, and Cajun seasoning for a spicier profile.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making bacon‑wrapped pickles?
Common errors include not drying the pickles, which leads to soggy bacon; wrapping the bacon too loosely, causing it to slip; and grilling at too high a heat, which can burn the bacon before it crisps. Follow the critical steps for best results.
Why does this Right Way BBQ recipe use medium‑high heat (375°F) instead of a higher temperature for grilling bacon‑wrapped pickles?
Medium‑high heat allows the bacon to render slowly, becoming crisp without burning the pickle flesh. A higher temperature would char the bacon quickly while leaving the interior undercooked and could cause flare‑ups from excess fat.
Can I make bacon‑wrapped pickles ahead of time and how should I store them before grilling?
Yes, you can assemble the wrapped pickles and keep them refrigerated, covered, for up to 4 hours before cooking. Store them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture, then grill when ready.
What does the YouTube channel Right Way BBQ specialize in?
The YouTube channel Right Way BBQ specializes in straightforward, outdoor grilling techniques, focusing on classic American BBQ dishes, quick snack ideas, and step‑by‑step tutorials for home cooks of all skill levels.
How does the YouTube channel Right Way BBQ's approach to American BBQ cooking differ from other BBQ channels?
Right Way BBQ emphasizes simplicity and minimal equipment, often using a single grill and basic pantry ingredients. The host prioritizes clear, concise instructions and practical tips that let viewers achieve restaurant‑quality results without complex setups.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
