Buffalo Ranch Bacon Wrapped Pickles - Best Snack Recipe

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If you love bold flavors and crispy, smoky bites, these Buffalo Ranch Bacon Wrapped Pickles are going to blow you away. I make them when I want something that feels over the top but still super easy, and they never last long once I pull them off the smoker. They’re tangy, spicy, smoky, and creamy all at once, which makes them a perfect appetizer for game day, parties, or just hanging out in the backyard.

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I’ve tested these a few times now, and each time they get better - the marinade adds so much punch that plain fried pickles just can’t touch. When that thick-cut bacon crisps up and the ranch rub hits the hot grill, the smell alone will bring everyone running. If you’re searching for something new and memorable to add to your snack lineup, Buffalo Ranch Bacon Wrapped Pickles are it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s fast and approachable - you don’t need fancy skills or equipment. It’s easy to customize with different spice levels or sauces. It’s been a repeat favorite for my family and friends whenever I make it.

Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need

Here’s everything that goes into Buffalo Ranch Bacon Wrapped Pickles:

• 6 Whole Dill Pickles (Cut Into Spears)
• 1 Oz Ranch Dressing
• ½ C Buffalo Wing Sauce
• ½ C Pickle Juice (From The Jar)
• 12 Strips Thick-Cut Bacon
• Toothpicks, For Securing
• 1 Oz Package Ranch Seasoning
• ¾ teaspoon Garlic Powder
• ¾ teaspoon Onion Powder
• ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
• ¼ teaspoon Cayenne
• ¼ teaspoon Paprika

I like using Claussen or Grillo’s pickles since they stay crunchy and have good flavor. Thick-cut bacon is a must here - thin bacon doesn’t hold up as well and won’t wrap tightly. A wire rack over a sheet pan makes cleanup easier, but you can cook them directly on your smoker or grill grates.

How to Make It

Preparation

Start by marinating the pickles overnight. Place the pickle spears in a shallow dish or resealable bag, then add ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, and pickle juice. Mix well to coat and refrigerate overnight so the flavor really soaks in. You could also season the pickle juice in the pickle jar as well!

At the same time, make your ranch rub. Combine the packet of ranch seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne, and paprika. Mix it well and keep it sealed until you’re ready to use it.

Cooking

Preheat your smoker or grill to 350°F. Remove the pickles from the marinade and pat them lightly with paper towels so the bacon sticks better. Wrap each spear with one strip of bacon and secure with a toothpick if needed.

Place the bacon wrapped pickles on a wire rack or directly on the grates. Sprinkle generously with ranch rub. Smoke for 35 - 40 minutes until the bacon is crisp and browned. The best cook time is 40 minutes at 350°F.

When the bacon wrapped pickles are done, let them rest a couple of minutes before serving. The bacon will firm up and the ranch rub will set into a flavorful crust.

Serving Suggestions

I like serving Buffalo Ranch Bacon Wrapped Pickles hot with extra ranch or buffalo sauce on the side for dipping. They’re perfect alongside wings, nachos, or a pile of griddle fries if you’re going all in on game day food.

The bacon wrapped pickles also make a fun addition to a BBQ spread - I’ve served them with brisket burnt ends and pulled pork sandwiches, and they always stand out. If you have leftovers (rare, but it happens), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for about 5-8 minutes to re-crisp the bacon.

Recipe Notes and Pro Tips

Don’t skip the overnight marinade for this bacon wrapped pickle recipe - it gives the pickles a deep tangy-spicy flavor. If you’re short on time, at least let them sit for 2 hours. Thick-cut bacon is non-negotiable because it crisps up without falling apart. Use a toothpick through the bacon seam to keep it wrapped tight while cooking.

If you’re worried about soggy bacon, cook them on a wire rack so air can circulate all around. For extra smoky flavor, use hickory or applewood pellets in your smoker. And if you want more heat, double the cayenne in the ranch rub.

Variations

Add a glaze of honey BBQ to make a sweeter version. Add jalapeno slices inside the pickle before wrapping for an extra kick. Try peppered bacon instead of plain for a stronger bite.

You can also use this same method for jalapeno poppers, cheese-stuffed pickles, or even hot dogs if you want to get creative. The ranch rub works great on chicken wings too, so make a little extra and keep it on hand.

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