Description
This Fried Pickle and Ranch Dip recipe combines crunchy toasted panko breadcrumbs with a creamy, tangy ranch and dill pickle dip, creating the ultimate appetizer perfect for parties or casual snacking. The toasted breadcrumbs add delightful texture, while the blend of fresh herbs and pickles brings bold, fresh flavors.
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
For Serving
- Potato chips, toasted crostini, fresh vegetables, or pretzels
Instructions
- Toast the Breadcrumbs: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the panko breadcrumbs, stirring continuously until they are toasted and golden brown, about 2 to 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 Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning, minced garlic, pickle juice, chopped fresh dill, and finely chopped chives until evenly incorporated.
- Fold in Pickles: Chop the dill pickles finely and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Gently fold the pickles into the dip mixture along with ¼ teaspoon salt to enhance flavor.
- Chill the Dip: Transfer the prepared dip into a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Serve: Before serving, stir ¼ cup of the toasted breadcrumbs into the dip for added crunch. Top 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 results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to achieve a smooth dip texture.
- Patting the pickles dry prevents the dip from becoming watery.
- You can prepare the dip one day ahead to allow flavors to develop even more.
- Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning according to your taste preference.
- Use fresh herbs for the brightest flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
