Description
A creamy, tangy, and crunchy dip that mimics the flavor of fried pickles without the deep fryer. This easy-to-make appetizer comes together in under 20 minutes and is perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1 cup dill pickle chips, drained and patted dry
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp dried dill weed
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add panko breadcrumbs, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the grated cheddar cheese and mix until combined.
- Fold in the drained pickle chips gently, ensuring they are distributed evenly without mashing.
- Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper if needed (keep in mind the pickles and cheese are already salty).
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the toasted breadcrumb mixture over the top and press down gently.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are sizzling.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle the remaining breadcrumb mixture on top.
- Return to oven for another 5 minutes until the top is crispy and cheese is fully melted.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the dip to set.
Notes
Ensure pickles are thoroughly drained and patted dry to prevent a watery dip. Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the base. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free panko or crushed crackers. Do not microwave leftovers as it makes the texture soggy; reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the dip
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 580
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 8
Keywords: fried pickle dip, party snack, game day food, cream cheese dip, easy appetizer, crunchy dip, tailgate food