Description
This Fried Pickle and Ranch Dip is the ultimate appetizer combining the tangy crunch of pickles with a creamy ranch-flavored base. Toasted panko breadcrumbs add a delightful crispy texture both inside and as a topping. Perfect for parties, game days, or casual snacking, this dip is served chilled alongside chips, crostini, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¾ cup Panko breadcrumbs (toasted, divided)
- ½ teaspoon salt
Dip
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning
- 1 cup dill pickles (chopped small, plus more for garnish)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped, plus more for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For Serving
- Potato chips, toasted crostini, fresh vegetables, or pretzels
Instructions
- Toast the Breadcrumbs: In a skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and stir continuously for about 2–3 minutes until they are toasted and golden brown. Season with ½ teaspoon salt, then set the toasted breadcrumbs aside to cool.
- Prepare the Pickle Dip: Using a handheld or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese for 1 minute until smooth. Add the sour cream and mix until fully combined. Stir in the Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning, minced garlic, pickle juice, chopped fresh dill, and chopped fresh chives until well incorporated. Chop the dill pickles finely, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, then fold them gently into the mixture.
- Chill the Dip: Transfer the completed dip mixture into a serving bowl. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow all the flavors to meld beautifully together.
- Serve: Just before serving, stir ¼ cup of the toasted breadcrumbs into the chilled dip. Top the dip with the remaining toasted breadcrumbs and garnish with extra chopped pickles and fresh dill. Serve the dip alongside potato chips, toasted crostini, fresh vegetables, or pretzels for dipping.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh herbs like dill and chives.
- Patting pickles dry is essential to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
- Refrigerating the dip overnight improves the taste and texture.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko.
- Use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream if you want a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
