Pickle Ranch Dip with Crunchy Topping
Pickle Ranch Dip with Crunchy Topping is a flavorful and texturally satisfying snack combining tangy diced dill pickles with a creamy ranch and sour cream base, enriched by cream cheese and shredded cheese, and finished with a crispy fried onion or breadcrumb topping. Perfect for parties or quick snacks, this versatile dip can be served baked or chilled, pairing beautifully with chips, veggies, or crackers. Easy to make with pantry staples and customizable to suit dietary preferences, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Author: Lucas
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (optional baking)
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: About 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking or Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free topping)
Dip Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
Seasonings
- 1 package (1 oz) ranch dressing mix (powdered or prepared)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Add-Ins
- 1 cup diced dill pickles, well-drained
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, gouda, or your choice)
Crunchy Topping
- 1 cup fried onions or breadcrumbs (for gluten-free option, use gluten-free fried onions or crushed nuts)
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh chives or dill
- Extra diced pickles
- Prepare the Base: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy, creating the perfect dip base.
- Add Flavor Enhancers: Mix in the ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly to infuse the dip with signature tangy and savory notes.
- Stir in Pickles and Cheese: Fold in the well-drained diced dill pickles and shredded cheese, ensuring even distribution for bursts of tang and creamy texture.
- Assemble the Topping: Spread the dip mixture in a shallow serving dish. Generously sprinkle the crunchy topping evenly over the surface to provide a satisfying crispy contrast.
- Bake or Chill: For a warm version, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy. Alternatively, serve chilled for a cooler snack with the same great flavor.
Notes
- Use well-drained pickles to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
- Allow cream cheese and sour cream to reach room temperature for smooth mixing without lumps.
- Pat the crunchy topping dry if needed for extra crispiness.
- Chill the dip before serving to enhance flavor melding and improve texture.
- Adjust seasoning last by tasting and adding salt, pepper, or additional ranch powder to your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: pickle ranch dip, creamy dip, party dip, snack recipe, appetizer, crunchy topping, dill pickles, ranch dressing