Pickle Me Cheesy hero image

Pickle Me Cheesy

Crispy Baked Shells-and-Cheese Pockets with Panko Crunch

55 minutes
Serves 4
AppetizerAmericanVegetarianNut-freeShellfish-freeSoy-free
Herb's take

Here’s the American snack-bar appetizer you didn’t know you needed: mac and cheese meets pickle juice in a crispy, hand-held package. You’ll learn how to chill, fold, and panko-coat for maximum crunch meets cheesy molten goodness.

Ingredients

Yield
4

Instructions

  1. 01
    Prepare the Velveeta shells and cheese according to package directions, then transfer to a large bowl to cool for 10 minutes.
  2. 02
    Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and dill pickle brine until evenly combined.
  3. 03
    Spread the cheesy pasta mixture in a shallow dish and chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes until firm.
  4. 04
    Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment and lightly coat with cooking spray.
  5. 05
    Place a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon a rounded tablespoon of the chilled mac and cheese mixture into the center.
  6. 06
    Brush edges with a little beaten egg. Fold the wrapper over the filling to form a triangle, pressing the edges to seal well.
  7. 07
    Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling, placing each finished pocket on the baking sheet.
  8. 08
    Lightly brush the tops of the pockets with more beaten egg. Sprinkle and gently press panko breadcrumbs onto the tops for a crunchy coating.
  9. 09
    Spray the panko-topped pockets lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with a little oil.
  10. 10
    Bake for 14-16 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp on both sides.
  11. 11
    Let cool for 2 minutes before serving. Season with a little salt if needed and serve hot.

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