Description

This Fried Pickle and Ranch Dip recipe is the ultimate appetizer perfect for gatherings and parties. It features a creamy ranch-based dip loaded with chopped dill pickles and fresh herbs, topped with crispy toasted panko breadcrumbs for an irresistible crunch. Serve it with potato chips, crostini, fresh veggies, or pretzels for a crowd-pleasing snack that’s quick to prepare and flavorful.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons olive oil
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs, toasted and 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

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Instructions

Toast the Breadcrumbs: In a skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and stir continually until they are toasted and golden brown, about 2–3 minutes. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and remove from heat 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, minced garlic, pickle juice, chopped fresh dill, and chives until evenly incorporated. Chop the dill pickles finely and pat dry with a paper towel, then fold them gently into the mixture.
Chill the Dip: Transfer the prepared dip to a serving bowl and cover. 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 to add some crunch inside. Then, sprinkle the remaining breadcrumbs on top. Garnish with extra chopped pickles and fresh dill. Serve alongside potato chips, toasted crostini, fresh vegetables, or pretzels for dipping.

Notes

Toast the panko breadcrumbs carefully to avoid burning; stir continuously.
For best flavor, chill the dip overnight to let the seasonings meld deeply.
Feel free to adjust garlic, dill, or ranch seasoning quantities to taste.
Use fresh herbs for optimal brightness and freshness.
If you prefer a smoother dip, pulse pickles briefly in a food processor before folding in.