Crispy Fried Ranch Dip

Featured in 30-Minute Meals for Busy Days.

A quick dip with sour cream, cream cheese, ranch, and dill pickles. Finished with crispy panko that gives a fried pickle vibe.
Barbara Chef
Updated on Tue, 18 Mar 2025 00:16:12 GMT
Crunchy Pickle and Ranch Dip Pin it
Crunchy Pickle and Ranch Dip | cookwithcarla.com

Taking cues from a much-adored starter, this Pickle Ranch Dip packs tons of zest and bright flavors. It's just right for parties or get-togethers, blending tangy crunchy pickle bits with smooth, rich ranch goodness. You can whip it up fast, making it your go-to snack that'll win over any crowd.

Can't get enough of those pickle apps at restaurants? Now you can enjoy those same tastes in a dip! My pickle ranch creation brings together all those must-have elements: crunchy panko bits, zesty pickles, and that creamy ranch sauce we all crave. What's better than that?

I'm always thrilled to transform popular foods into dippable treats. We've already done this several times on the blog with things like pizza veggie dip, popper dip with jalapeños, and that hoagie dip with Italian flavors. They've all been total hits, so I'm pumped to add one more to our lineup. You're gonna fall for this one too.

Got a thing for dips? Me too! That's exactly why I've put together a whole bunch of my tastiest dip recipes. Trust me, you'll find so many you'll want to try!

Ingredients

Let's round up everything we need before making this tasty dip. Here's your shopping list:

Fried Pickle and Ranch Dip Recipe Pin it
Fried Pickle and Ranch Dip Recipe | cookwithcarla.com
  • panko: Lightly browned in butter, this gives you that signature crunch you'd expect from pickle apps.
  • cream cheese & sour cream: These two create the creamy foundation that makes this dip so mouthwatering.
  • ranch seasoning, onion powder, and garlic powder: These seasonings work together to nail that classic ranch flavor we all love.
  • lemon juice: A little squeeze adds that zingy freshness that lifts all the flavors.
  • dill pickles: Pick whatever kind you like best. I really go for those fresh ones kept in the cold section at the store.
  • fresh dill & fresh chives: Nothing beats fresh herbs for that pop of color and taste.
  • potato chips: I grabbed kettle-cooked ones, but I'll share more options for dipping below.

How To Make

I'll guide you through making this pickle dip step by step, and you'll also find the complete list of ingredients with detailed steps in the recipe card you can print out below.

Step 1:
First, melt your butter in a small pan over medium heat. Toss in the panko and cook until it turns golden brown. Let it cool down.
Step 2:
Grab a big bowl and mix the cream cheese with sour cream. Beat it with a mixer until it's nice and smooth.
Step 3:
Now add your ranch seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Mix everything together.
Step 4:
Mix in the chopped pickles, dill, chives, and half of your toasted panko. Stir until it's all blended, then put it in your serving bowl.
Step 5:
Sprinkle the rest of the panko on top. Add some extra pickle bits, dill, and chives to make it look fancy.
Step 6:
Serve it up with potato chips for dipping.

That's all there is to it – you've got a dip that'll be the talk of your next hangout. Whether you're watching the game, bringing something to a potluck, or just want a yummy snack, this Pickle Ranch Dip hits all the right notes.

Best Fried Pickle and Ranch Dip Recipe Pin it
Best Fried Pickle and Ranch Dip Recipe | cookwithcarla.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What do you eat with fried pickle and ranch dip?
You've got tons of options! Regular potato chips work perfectly with the creamy, crunchy mix in this dip, but don't stop there. Fresh veggies like carrots, cucumber slices, and colorful peppers taste great for a lighter choice. Pretzels, toasted bread slices, or different chips like tortilla or pita chips also pair wonderfully.
Just stay away from flavored chips since they might clash with all the tasty stuff already in the dip.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely! But I'd wait to add the panko crumbs until right before serving so they stay crunchy.
Can I make this dip spicier?
You bet! Want more heat? Try mixing in some chopped jalapeños or a few drops of hot sauce. Just add as much or as little as you want based on how spicy you like things.
How long can I store this dip in the refrigerator?
Keep it in a sealed container and it'll stay good in your fridge for about 3 days. Just give it a good stir if it separates a bit, and always make sure it still looks and smells fresh before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Sure, just refrigerate after making, but add the crunchy topping right before eating for the best texture.
→ Which pickles taste best in this?
Dill pickles work perfectly, but for a sweeter option, try bread and butter ones.
→ Can I use bottled ranch dressing?
Not really. It would make the dip too runny, so stick with the dry ranch mix.
→ What else could I dip in this?
Try pretzels, toasted bread rounds, veggies, or even pita chips.
→ How long does it last in the fridge?
It'll stay good for about 3 days in a sealed container, but the topping might lose its crunch.

Pickle Ranch Crunch Dip

A tangy dip with dill pickle flavor and ranch seasoning. Topped with crispy panko and fresh herbs, it's a hit for any party.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
20 Minutes

Category: Quick & Easy

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1 teaspoon garlic powder
02 1 teaspoon onion powder
03 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning
04 ½ teaspoon salt
05 1 cup sour cream
06 ½ cup panko
07 2 tablespoons lemon juice
08 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 8 ounces cream cheese
10 1 cup diced dill pickles, plus extra for topping
11 1 tablespoon fresh dill, plus extra for topping
12 1 tablespoon fresh chives, plus extra for topping
13 Serve with potato chips

Instructions

Step 01

Melt the butter in a little pan on medium heat. Stir in the panko and keep stirring until it gets a toasty, golden color. Cool it off while you prep everything else.

Step 02

Using a hand mixer, blend the cream cheese and sour cream together in a big bowl until it’s smooth as can be.

Step 03

Stir in the ranch mix, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, and salt until everything's mixed evenly. This is the key to that zippy flavor!

Step 04

Gently mix in the diced dill pickles, chives, dill, and half the cooled panko. Don't overdo it—just fold it in till it’s all well spread out.

Step 05

Spoon the dip into a serving bowl, then sprinkle the rest of the panko on top. Add extra chopped pickles, fresh dill, and chives to make it pop.

Step 06

Scoop up this creamy delight with crispy potato chips. Enjoy every bite!

Notes

  1. Make it the day before and chill it in the fridge to save time.
  2. The crispy panko topping is kind of like fried pickle breading!
  3. Switch things up with pretzel crisps or toasted baguette slices.

Tools You'll Need

  • Small frying pan
  • Big bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Measuring tools for cups and spoons
  • Bowls for serving

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (butter, cream cheese, sour cream)
  • Wheat (panko breadcrumbs)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 433
  • Total Fat: 34 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 27 g
  • Protein: 6 g