why make this recipe
This dip is fast, tasty, and needs few steps. It gives a crunchy, tangy bite that people like. It works for parties, snacks, or game day. It also has a dairy-free option so more people can enjoy it.
introduction
Easy Fried Pickle Dip (Dairy-Free Option) mixes creamy dip with a fried crunchy top. The dip has dill pickle flavor and fresh dill. It is simple to mix and quick to brown the topping. This dip goes well with many fried snacks, and you can serve it with other simple dishes like a country fried chicken breast recipe for a full plate.
how to make Easy Fried Pickle Dip (Dairy-Free Option)
- Soften the cream cheese at room temperature if needed.
- In a bowl, mix the sour cream and cream cheese until smooth.
- Stir in chopped dill pickles, pickle juice, Worcestershire sauce, fresh dill, garlic powder, onion powder, ranch seasoning, and salt. Taste and adjust salt.
- Spread the dip in a shallow oven-safe dish.
- For the fried topping, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter or dairy-free butter.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mix evenly over the dip.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until the top is golden and the dip is hot, about 12–15 minutes.
- Let the dip rest a few minutes before serving so it sets a bit.
Ingredients :
- 16 oz container sour cream (can sub dairy free )
- 8 oz cream cheese (can sub dairy free (I use Kite Hill))
- 1 cup dill pickles (chopped )
- 2 tbsp pickle juice
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2-3 tbsp fresh dill
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning (my homemade seasoning has a df option)
- salt to taste
- 3/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp butter (or dairy-free butter)
Directions :
Dill Pickle Dip
- Mix all dip ingredients until smooth and well combined.
- Spread in an oven-safe dish.
Fried Topping
- Mix panko with melted butter.
- Spread on top of the dip.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden and hot, about 12–15 minutes.
how to serve Easy Fried Pickle Dip (Dairy-Free Option)
Serve warm with chips, fresh veggies, or toasted bread. For a mix of sweet and salty, add fruit or treats like easy Valentine’s Day chocolate covered strawberries on the side for guests who want sweet options.
how to store Easy Fried Pickle Dip (Dairy-Free Option)
- Cool to room temperature.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or move the dip to an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, or microwave in short bursts and stir.
tips to make Easy Fried Pickle Dip (Dairy-Free Option)
- Use dairy-free sour cream and cream cheese to make it dairy-free.
- Chop pickles small so the dip stays smooth.
- Toast the panko lightly in a pan first for extra crunch.
- Taste and add more pickle juice if you want more tang.
- Do not overbake or the dip can dry out.
variation (if any)
- Add chopped jalapeño for heat.
- Mix in cooked bacon or a bacon substitute for a smoky flavor.
- Swap fresh dill for chives or green onion for a different herb note.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make the dip and refrigerate. Add the breadcrumb topping and bake when ready to serve.
Q: Can I air-fry the dip instead of baking?
A: Yes, use an air-fryer safe dish and cook at 350°F (175°C) until the top is golden and the dip is warm.
Q: How do I make the topping extra crunchy?
A: Toast panko in a pan with the butter before adding it to the dip, then bake as directed.
Q: Is this dip safe for people with lactose intolerance?
A: Use dairy-free sour cream and dairy-free cream cheese to make it lactose-free.
Q: Can I freeze the dip?
A: You can freeze the plain dip without the topping, but texture may change. Thaw in the fridge and add fresh topping before baking.