Refrigerator Garlic Dill Pickles

My refrigerator Garlic Dill Pickles are incredibly easy to make. This easy step by step recipe is perfect for beginners because it’s not canned. Just pour the brine over the pickles and toss them in the fridge.

Pickles are such and easy and delicious side. Here are two of my family favorites for game day: fire and ice pickles and my drunken pickles.

Why this Garlic Dill Pickle Recipe is a Keeper

I love this recipe because it’s a super easy way to make the best pickles. This recipe is perfect for when your pickle inventory is low and need to whip some up.

• Easy: Unlike traditional canned goods, this method requires minimal equipment and effort. You can have delicious homemade pickles in just a few steps.
• Fresh and Vibrant Flavor: Refrigerator pickles retain a brighter, fresher flavor and a satisfying crispness that can sometimes be lost in the canning process. The dill and garlic truly shine.
• Customizable to Your Taste: This recipe is a fantastic base that you can easily adjust to your preferred level of garlic, tasty dill, sweetness, and spice.
• Quick Gratification: While they need some time to brine, you can typically start enjoying these pickles within a day or two of when you make the pickles.
• No Special Equipment Needed: Forget water baths and pressure cookers! All you need are jars and basic kitchen tools.
• Perfect for Small Batches: Refrigerator pickling is ideal for using up a glut of cucumbers or making a smaller quantity for personal enjoyment.

How Long Do Refrigerator Pickles Last?

This easy recipe for refrigerator garlic dills pickle slices will last in the fridge for about a month. A sealed canned jar of pickles will stay for months in the refrigerator.

Ingredient Notes and Variation Suggestions for the Garlic and Dill Cucumber Recipe

This recipe is super easy to customize. Try this recipe using different ingredients to make different flavors.

Get the full printable recipe with specific measurements and directions in the recipe card below.

• Cucumbers: Try pickling Kirby cucumbers (classic pickling cucumbers), English cucumbers (less seeds), or even thinly sliced regular cucumbers.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are always best to use for optimal flavor.
  • Garlic Lovers: If you love garlic, increase the amount of garlic or use Oven Roasted Garlic for a sweeter, mellow flavor. You could also try adding fermented garlic.
• Dill: Fresh is preferred but you can also use dried dill if needed.
• Spears, Chips, or Whole Pickles: Adjust the cut of your cucumbers for different textures and uses. Spears are great for snacking, chips for sandwiches, and small whole cucumbers are fun to eat.
• Spicy Pickles: Add red pepper flakes, sliced jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brine for heat.
• Other Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like tarragon, thyme, or bay leaves.
• Spices: Add mustard seeds, coriander seeds, celery seeds, allspice berries, or cloves for a more complex spice profile.

How to Make Refrigerator Homemade Garlic Dill Pickles

This recipe comes together in just 4 easy to follow steps. Make your pickles this summer for a quick snack.

Get the full printable recipe with specific measurements and directions in the recipe card below.

1. Prepare Jars: Slice cucumbers into quarters and place into mason jars. Evenly add garlic and dill seed between the jars.
2. Heat Vinegar Mix: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the vinegar, sugar and salt. Whisk occasionally until sugar and salt are dissolved.
3. Make the Brine: Place water in a large bowl and pour the vinegar mixture into the water. Add the coriander seeds, mustard seeds and red pepper flakes.
4. Top Jars and Chill: Pour the brine into the jars. Secure the lids and refrigerate for 24 hours before enjoying.

Prep Ahead Suggestions to Make Fermented Pickles

Preparing a recipe ahead of time can be the best way to go. Make these pickles in advance to be able to enjoy them whenever.

• Wash and Trim Cucumbers: Wash your cucumbers thoroughly and trim off the blossom end (this contains enzymes that can lead to mushy pickles). You can do this a day in advance and store the trimmed cucumbers in the refrigerator. 
• Slice Cucumbers: Slice the cucumbers into pickle chips, spears, or if they’re small enough, leave them whole. Do this a day in advance and store the cucumbers in the refrigerator in an airtight container. 
• Prepare Garlic and Dill: Peel and smash or slice your garlic. Wash and roughly chop or leave your sprigs of dill whole. These can also be prepped a day ahead and stored in airtight containers in the fridge.
• Prepare Spices: If you’re using other whole spices like peppercorns or mustard seeds, you can measure them out and keep them in a small bowl.
• Make the Brine (Optional): You can whisk together the vinegar, water, salt, and sugar (if using) a few hours in advance to ensure the salt and sugar are fully dissolved. Store the brine at room temperature.

Common Questions About This Easy Refrigerator Dill Pickles Recipe