Description
This Fried Pickle and Ranch Dip is the ultimate appetizer combining crispy toasted panko breadcrumbs, creamy ranch-flavored dip, and tangy dill pickles for a crowd-pleasing snack perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Toasted Breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¾ cup Panko breadcrumbs (toasted, divided)
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Pickle Ranch 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 frequently, and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until they are toasted and golden brown. Season with ½ teaspoon salt, then remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Prepare the Pickle Dip: Using a handheld or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese for one minute until smooth. Add 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 paper towels to remove excess moisture. Gently fold the pickles into the dip mixture.
- Chill the Dip: Transfer the prepared dip into a serving bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
- Serve: Just before serving, stir ¼ cup of the toasted breadcrumbs into the dip to add crunch. Sprinkle the remaining breadcrumbs on top along with extra chopped pickles and fresh dill for garnish. Serve alongside potato chips, toasted crostini, fresh vegetables, or pretzels for dipping.
Notes
- To maintain the crispiness of the breadcrumbs, add some just before serving rather than mixing all in advance.
- Patting the pickles dry is important to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the dip.
- This dip can be prepared a day ahead, making it ideal for parties.
- Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to adapt this recipe for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
