Description
A creamy and flavorful Fried Pickle Ranch Dip featuring toasted Panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping. This easy appetizer pairs perfectly with chips, crostini, fresh veggies, or pretzels, combining tangy dill pickles, fresh herbs, and Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning for an irresistible snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dip Ingredients
- 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
Toasted Breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¾ cup Panko breadcrumbs (toasted, divided)
- ½ teaspoon salt
For Serving
- Potato chips, toasted crostini, fresh vegetables, or pretzels
Instructions
- Toast the Panko Breadcrumbs: In a skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and stir continuously for about 2–3 minutes until they are toasted and golden brown. Season with ½ teaspoon salt, then transfer the toasted breadcrumbs to a plate and let them cool.
- Prepare the Dip Mixture: 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 packet of Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning, minced garlic, pickle juice, chopped fresh dill, and finely chopped chives until incorporated thoroughly. Chop the dill pickles into small pieces, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, and fold them gently into the dip mixture.
- Chill the Dip: Transfer the prepared dip into a serving bowl and cover it. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow all the flavors to meld and develop fully.
- Finish and Serve: Before serving, stir ¼ cup of the toasted breadcrumbs into the dip, then spread the remaining toasted breadcrumbs evenly on top. Garnish with additional chopped pickles and fresh dill for extra flavor and visual appeal. Serve with potato chips, toasted crostini, fresh vegetables, or pretzels for dipping.
Notes
- For best flavor, refrigerate the dip overnight to let the ingredients meld properly.
- Make sure to pat dry the dill pickles to avoid adding excess moisture to the dip.
- To make the toasted breadcrumbs extra crunchy, watch carefully and stir continuously to avoid burning.
- This dip pairs well with a variety of dippers including fresh veggies, pretzels, chips, and toasted bread slices.
- You can substitute fresh dill and chives with dried herbs if fresh are not available, but fresh is preferred for best taste.
