Description

This Fried Pickle and Ranch Dip combines crispy toasted panko breadcrumbs with a creamy, tangy ranch-flavored base studded with dill pickles and fresh herbs. Served chilled and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, this appetizer is perfect for dunking with chips, crostini, vegetables, or pretzels, delivering a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Toasted Breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons olive oil
¾ cup Panko breadcrumbs (toasted, divided)
½ teaspoon salt

For the 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

To Serve

Potato chips, toasted crostini, fresh vegetables, or pretzels

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Instructions

Toast the Breadcrumbs: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and stir continuously until they become toasted and golden brown, about 2–3 minutes. Season with ½ teaspoon salt, then remove from heat and set 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 ranch seasoning packet, minced garlic, pickle juice, chopped fresh dill, and chopped chives until all ingredients are incorporated evenly. Chop the dill pickles into small pieces and pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, then gently fold them into the dip mixture.
Chill the Dip: Transfer the prepared dip to a serving bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and develop fully.
Serve: Before serving, stir ¼ cup of the toasted breadcrumbs into the dip for added texture. Sprinkle the remaining toasted breadcrumbs on top of the dip. Garnish with extra chopped pickles and fresh dill to enhance the presentation. Serve alongside potato chips, toasted crostini, fresh vegetables, or pretzels for dipping.

Notes

For best texture, ensure pickles are well drained and patted dry before folding into the dip to avoid excess moisture softening the dip.
To toast breadcrumbs evenly, stir continuously and keep an eye to prevent burning.
This dip benefits from chilling overnight to deepen the flavors.
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Use gluten-free panko for a gluten-free option.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American