Save It A creamy, tangy dip inspired by the flavors of fried pickles, topped with crunchy panko and ranch seasoning. Perfect for parties and snacking.
The first time I served this dip at a game night, everyone asked for the recipe. People love how the ranch and pickle flavors come together with extra crunch on top.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: 8 oz (225 g), softened
- Sour cream: 1 cup (240 g)
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup (120 g)
- Dill pickles: 1 cup (120 g), finely chopped
- Pickle brine: 2 tbsp
- Green onions: 1/4 cup (30 g), finely sliced
- Dill: 1 tbsp fresh, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Ranch seasoning mix: 1 tsp (for dip)
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/4 tsp
- Panko breadcrumbs: 3/4 cup (45 g)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- Ranch seasoning mix: 1/2 tsp (for topping)
- Salt: Pinch (for topping)
Instructions
- Toast Panko:
- Preheat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add butter. Once melted, stir in panko breadcrumbs, ranch seasoning, and salt. Toast, stirring often, until golden and crispy (4 to 5 minutes). Remove and cool.
- Mix Base:
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Add Flavor:
- Add pickles, pickle brine, green onions, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, ranch seasoning, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Serve:
- Transfer dip to serving bowl. Just before serving, sprinkle cooled crispy panko mixture evenly on top.
- Enjoy:
- Serve with chips, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.
Save It This dip is a favorite with my family during movie nights. My kids love scooping it up with crunchy veggies.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, hand mixer or sturdy whisk, skillet, spatula, serving bowl.
Allergen Information
Contains: Dairy (cream cheese, sour cream, butter), eggs (mayonnaise), gluten (panko breadcrumbs). Check ranch mix and mayonnaise labels if store-bought.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 8 g, Protein: 3 g (per serving).
Save It Serve this dip chilled for best texture. The crispy panko topping keeps it irresistible until the last bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives the dip its tangy flavor?
The tang comes from a combination of finely chopped dill pickles, pickle brine, and sour cream, which balance the creamy base.
- → How is the crispy panko topping prepared?
Panko breadcrumbs are toasted in butter with ranch seasoning and a pinch of salt until golden and crunchy, then cooled before topping.
- → Can the dip be made spicier?
Yes, adding 1–2 teaspoons of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper can introduce a spicy kick.
- → Are there alternatives to sour cream in this dip?
Greek yogurt can be substituted for sour cream for a lighter texture and tang.
- → What are good serving options?
This dip pairs well with chips, pretzels, or fresh vegetables for varied textures and flavors.