Dill Pickle Dip
Introduction
Ingredients (8 servings)
Ingredients
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How to Make Dill Pickle Dip
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Soften the cream cheese
Place the cream cheese on the counter until very soft and easy to stir, about 30 minutes.
If needed, soften it in the microwave in 10 second bursts, stirring between each, until just pliable.
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Prep the pickles and dill
Finely chop the dill pickles and spread them on a double layer of paper towels.
Pat very dry to remove extra brine so the dip stays thick and creamy.
Finely chop the fresh dill and set aside.
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Mix the creamy base
Add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, and ranch seasoning to a medium mixing bowl.
Beat with a hand mixer or sturdy spatula until completely smooth and well combined.
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Fold in the flavor
Stir in the grated parmesan, chopped pickles, fresh dill, and cracked black pepper until evenly distributed.
Taste and add a little more dill or pepper if you want a stronger flavor.
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Chill and serve
Cover the bowl and chill the dip at least 30 minutes so the flavors blend and the texture firms.
Serve with potato chips, pretzels, crackers, or crunchy veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
Substitutions
- Sour cream replaced with plain Greek yogurt
- Use full-fat plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra tang, more protein, and a slightly thicker, richer dip.
- Parmesan cheese replaced with sharp cheddar cheese
- Swap the parmesan for finely shredded sharp cheddar to keep the salty bite but add a more familiar, melty cheese flavor.
- Ranch seasoning mix replaced with a homemade herb blend
- Mix dried dill, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to mimic ranch while controlling the sodium level.
Tips
- Bring everything to room temperature
- Soft cream cheese and slightly cool, not icy, sour cream blend faster and give you a smoother, fluffier dip.
- Chop the pickles very small
- Tiny pickle pieces spread through every bite and release less liquid than big chunks, which helps the dip stay thick.
- Adjust the salt at the end
- Taste before salting, since pickles, parmesan, and ranch are all salty, then add only a pinch if it truly needs it.
- Chill for the best flavor
- A short rest in the fridge lets the ranch and dill bloom, and the dip also firms into a scoopable texture.
- Serve in a shallow bowl
- A wide, shallow bowl shows off the chunky pickles and makes it easier for guests to scoop without breaking chips.
Nutrition Facts *
| Energy | 159 | kcal |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 4 | g |
| Total Fat | 14 | g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 | g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 | g |
* Approximate, per serving.
Data source: USDA FoodData Central.
FAQ
- Can I make this dill pickle dip ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the dip up to 24 hours in advance, then cover and refrigerate it until serving time. Stir before serving, and refresh the dill on top if you like a brighter look.
- What should I do if my dip turns out too thin or watery?
- Stir in a couple extra tablespoons of softened cream cheese or sour cream, then chill again so it can firm up. Next time, pat the chopped pickles even drier with fresh paper towels.
- How long will this dill pickle dip keep in the fridge?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days for the best flavor and texture. Give it a quick stir before serving, since a little separation is normal.
- Can I use different types of pickles in this dip?
- Yes, you can use bread and butter, spicy, or half sour pickles, but the flavor will differ from classic dill. Avoid very sweet pickles if you prefer a savory, tangy dip.
- Is this dill pickle dip freezer friendly?
- No, this dip does not freeze well because the dairy can separate and turn grainy once it thaws. Keep it refrigerated instead and make only as much as you can enjoy within a few days.
Serving Suggestions
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