Description
This Pickle Ranch Dip is a creamy, tangy, and flavorful appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. It combines whipped cream cheese, sour cream, dill pickles, and ranch seasoning, enhanced with fresh herbs and toasted panko breadcrumbs for added texture. Chill time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an irresistible dip to serve with chips, pretzels, or fresh veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- â…› teaspoon salt, or to taste
Dairy
- 12 ounces whipped cream cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
Fresh Produce and Herbs
- 1 cup finely chopped dill pickles, plus extra for garnish
- 3 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, plus more for garnish
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives, plus more for garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Toast Panko Breadcrumbs: Heat a dry skillet over medium-low heat and add the panko breadcrumbs. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and toast them until they turn golden and crispy, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the breadcrumbs to cool completely.
- Mix Dip Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whipped cream cheese, sour cream, finely chopped dill pickles, ranch seasoning mix, grated garlic, chopped fresh dill, chopped fresh chives, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and fresh lemon juice. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Fold in Toasted Panko: Gently fold most of the toasted panko breadcrumbs into the dip mixture, reserving a few tablespoons to use as garnish later. Folding helps maintain some breadcrumbs’ texture in the dip.
- Chill to Develop Flavors: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dip for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight. This resting time allows all the flavors to meld together for a richer taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the remaining toasted panko on top of the dip, add extra chopped pickles, and a light dusting of fresh dill and chives for a vibrant presentation. Serve chilled with potato chips, pretzel crisps, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.
Notes
- Toasting the panko breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness to the dip.
- For a smoother texture, make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing.
- You can adjust the seasoning and lemon juice for a more tangy or mild flavor depending on your taste preference.
- This dip can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for entertaining and meal prep.
- Try serving with a variety of dippers such as sliced cucumbers, carrot sticks, or crackers for a diverse tasting experience.
