Step 1

For the pickles: Preheat a 3.5-quart air fryer to 390 degrees F. Set a wire rack inside a baking sheet.

Step 2

Drain the pickles and spread them out on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Pat dry with more paper towels, pressing gently to remove as much moisture as possible. Eliminate any pickles with large holes or ones that are very thin.

Step 3

Set up a breading station using 3 medium bowls: Whisk together the flour, cayenne and 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning in one bowl. In the second bowl combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. In the last combine the panko, Italian seasoning, the remaining 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Drizzle in the oil and use your hands to toss and coat the panko.

Step 4

Working in small batches, bread the pickles: First, toss a handful of pickles in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dunk them in the buttermilk mixture to completely coat, shaking to remove any excess. Finally, toss them in the panko, pressing gently to make it adhere. Arrange the breaded pickles on the prepared baking sheet and repeat until all the pickles are breaded.

Step 5

Arrange one-third of the breaded pickles in the basket of the air fryer in a single layer. Cook for 8 minutes, the pickles will be very crunchy and browned on both sides. Remove to a serving plate and repeat with the remaining two batches of pickles.

Step 6

For the dipping sauce: Meanwhile, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish and Cajun seasoning in small bowl.

Step 7

Serve the warm pickles with the dipping sauce or use them and the dipping sauce to top your favorite burger.