Fried Pickle Ranch Dip (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Crispy Topping

01 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 - 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

→ For the Creamy Base

03 - 1 1/2 cups full-fat sour cream
04 - 1 1/2 cups full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
05 - 1 packet ranch dressing mix (1 ounce)
06 - 2 tablespoons tangy pickle juice

→ Seasonings & Mix-ins

07 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
11 - 1 cup finely chopped premium dill pickles, plus extra for topping
12 - 1 tablespoon fresh dill, minced, plus extra for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Grab a large non-stick skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Drop in the butter and let it melt completely, swirling to coat the bottom of the pan. Add the panko breadcrumbs and reduce heat to medium. Stir frequently as they toast, watching them transform into beautiful golden-brown gems. Once they're perfectly crispy and aromatic, remove from heat and set aside.
02 - In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning packet, pickle juice, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Using an electric hand mixer, whip everything together until you achieve a luxuriously smooth and creamy consistency with no lumps in sight.
03 - Take your diced pickles and gently pat them dry with paper towels - this little step prevents your dip from getting watery later. Fold the dried pickles, fresh dill, and about two-thirds of those gorgeous toasted breadcrumbs into your creamy mixture, stirring just until evenly distributed.
04 - Transfer your dip to a serving bowl and sprinkle the remaining golden breadcrumbs on top, along with some extra pickle pieces and fresh dill for a beautiful presentation. Serve alongside crispy potato chips, fresh vegetable sticks, crunchy pretzels, or toasted baguette slices for the perfect party spread.

# Notes:

01 - This crowd-pleasing dip combines the tangy crunch of fried pickles with the beloved flavors of ranch in one irresistible appetizer.
02 - Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature for the smoothest texture - nobody wants lumpy dip!
03 - Patting the pickles dry is crucial to prevent the dip from becoming watery over time.