Crispy Fried Pickle Ranch Dip

Bowl of Crispy Fried Pickle Ranch Dip topped with golden panko crumbs, fresh dill, and chopped pickles, surrounded by chips and pretzels for dipping.

Crispy Fried Pickle Ranch Dip delivers all the crunchy, tangy, creamy flavors of your favorite bar snack in a scoopable, party-ready dip. With chopped dill pickles, a tangy ranch-packed cream cheese base, and a crispy, buttery panko crumb topping—it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering!

Ingredients

  • For the Creamy Pickle Dip:
    • 8 oz block cream cheese, softened
    • 1 cup full-fat sour cream
    • 2 tablespoons pickle juice (from a jar of dill pickles)
    • 1-ounce packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tablespoons homemade)
    • 1 cup finely chopped dill pickles
    • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
    • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, snipped
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
    • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • For the Crispy Topping:
    • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Optional Garnishes:
    • Extra chopped dill pickles
    • Fresh dill or chives
  • Serving Suggestions:
    • Potato chips, ridged chips
    • Pretzels
    • Veggie sticks (carrot, celery, cucumber)
    • Pita chips or crostini

Instructions

  1. Make the Crispy Topping:
    • In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and crisp (about 2–3 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Prepare the Pickles:
    • Place chopped dill pickles in a paper towel-lined bowl, then cover and gently press to absorb excess moisture. This keeps the dip from getting watery.
  3. Mix the Dip Base:
    • In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sour cream, pickle juice, and ranch seasoning using a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy.
    • Add the onion powder, garlic powder, chopped dill, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
    • Gently fold in the pressed, chopped pickles.
  4. Combine and Assemble:
    • Fold in two-thirds of the crispy panko crumbs. Transfer dip to a serving bowl and spread evenly. Top with remaining panko crumbs plus extra pickles and herbs for garnish.
  5. Chill and Serve:
    • For the best flavor, chill the dip for at least 1–2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
    • Serve with chips, pretzels, veggies, or crackers.

Pro Tips & Variations

  • Make Ahead: Prepare up to 24 hours ahead. Add crispy topping and garnish just before serving to maintain crunch.
  • Lighten It Up: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
  • Dairy-Free/Vegan: Use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream.
  • Add-Ons: Stir in crispy fried onions or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
  • Texture Control: Chop pickles finely for uniform dips or leave them chunky if you prefer more bite.

FAQ

Q: What type of pickles work best?
A: Dill pickles (chips or whole) offer the best classic flavor. Avoid bread-and-butter pickles, as they’re sweeter.

Q: Can I skip the ranch packet?
A: Yes—make your own ranch seasoning with a blend of dried dill, parsley, chives, onion and garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Q: How to store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days. Topping will lose some crunch but remains flavorful.

Other Dips and Snack Ideas

This Crispy Fried Pickle Ranch Dip is the ideal blend of creamy, tangy, herby, and crunchy—perfect for parties, BBQs, sports nights, or any occasion that needs a memorable snack!

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