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Crispy Fried Pickle Dip with Cream Cheese Ranch

crispy fried pickle dip - featured image

A crunchy, tangy fried pickle dip paired with a rich, creamy ranch base, perfect for parties, game days, or a comforting snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces dill pickle chips, drained well
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 packet ranch dressing mix (about 1 ounce)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • About 2 cups vegetable oil (can substitute with canola or peanut oil)

Instructions

  1. Drain dill pickle chips thoroughly on paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth to remove excess moisture. Let sit for at least 10 minutes.
  2. In one shallow bowl, combine all-purpose flour and cornstarch. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Dredge each pickle chip first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat well with panko breadcrumbs. Press the panko gently to help it stick. For a thicker crust, repeat the egg and panko step.
  4. Pour vegetable oil into a deep fryer or pot to a depth of 2–3 inches. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C), using a thermometer to monitor temperature.
  5. Carefully place coated pickles into hot oil in small batches. Fry for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pot.
  6. Use a slotted spoon to transfer fried pickles onto a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let cool slightly but serve warm.
  7. In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add ranch dressing mix, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until creamy and well combined. Adjust thickness with more milk if needed.
  8. Arrange warm fried pickles around a bowl of cream cheese ranch dip. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like dill or chives if desired.

Notes

Drain pickles thoroughly to avoid soggy batter and oil splatter. Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for perfect crispiness. Double-dip pickles in egg and panko for extra crunch. Keep fried pickles warm in a low oven while frying the rest. Air frying is a lighter alternative but less crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: fried pickles, pickle dip, cream cheese ranch, appetizer, snack, party food, crispy fried pickles