Description
This creamy and tangy Fried Pickle Dip with White Cheddar is a delightful appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Combining the sharpness of white cheddar with the zing of dill pickles and garlic, topped with a golden toasted panko crust, this dip offers a crunchy and flavorful experience that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Dip Ingredients
- 1 cup Mayonnaise (or Sour Cream, recommended Duke’s Mayo)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup Dill Pickles (finely diced, recommended Grillo’s)
- 2 tbsp Pickle Juice
- 1 cup White Cheddar (grated)
- 2 cloves Garlic (grated)
- 1 tbsp Fresh Dill (roughly chopped)
- 1 tbsp Chives (finely cut)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1/4 tsp Salt
Topping
- 1 tbsp Salted Butter
- 1/2 cup Seasoned Panko
Instructions
- Prepare the Dip: In a medium sized bowl, combine all the dip ingredients except the topping—mayonnaise, cream cheese, diced dill pickles, pickle juice, grated white cheddar, grated garlic, fresh dill, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Stir thoroughly until all components are smoothly blended.
- Chill the Dip: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. For best flavor, you can chill it up to 24 hours ahead of serving.
- Make the Topping: When ready to serve, heat a small frying pan over medium heat. Add the salted butter and let it melt fully.
- Toast the Panko: Add the seasoned panko breadcrumbs to the melted butter in the pan. Stir constantly and toast the panko for 1 to 2 minutes or until evenly golden brown, giving it a crunchy texture and rich flavor.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the chilled dill pickle dip into a serving bowl and evenly sprinkle the toasted panko topping over the surface. Serve immediately with your choice of chips, crackers, or veggies.
Notes
- You can substitute sour cream for mayonnaise if preferred, but Duke’s mayo is recommended for its flavor.
- For best results, use pickles with a nice balance of crunch and tang, such as Grillo’s.
- The dip benefits from chilling, which enhances the flavors and texture.
- Seasoned panko adds extra flavor and crunch; plain panko with a pinch of salt can be used if you don’t have seasoned.
- This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, pretzels, crackers, or fresh vegetables.