Irresistible Pickle Dip Recipe You’ll Crave All Year Round

I’ve always had a fondness for pickles, although I do have my favorites. Kosher baby dills win my heart every time, but I don’t shy away from enjoying half-sours or cornichons, and occasionally, the sweet bread and butter chips. Growing up, I’d race home from school to catch episodes of 90210, snacking on a bowl filled with dill pickles and pickled banana peppers. My snack choices haven’t evolved much since those days.

With roots in Jewish and Appalachian cultures, both known for their pickling traditions, I take my pickling heritage seriously. This led me to revamp the pickle snacks of my youth into a creamy, savory dip perfect for any gathering.

Inspired by S​​hilpa Uskokovic’s 2022 pickle dip recipe featured in Bon Appétit, I embraced the creative freedom she promoted in her dip variations.

My version of the pickle dip blends chopped dill pickles and their brine with three creamy bases—cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. The addition of ranch seasoning adds a tangy depth with hints of chives and buttermilk.

I also include chopped pickled banana peppers for an extra layer of flavor, although they are optional and can be omitted based on personal preference.

Serving Suggestions for Pickle Dip

This dip is perfect with sturdy potato chips like Ruffles, which can handle generous scoops. It also pairs well with chicken schnitzel, grilled pork chops, or spread over grilled chicken sandwiches. It’s a fantastic alternative to tartar sauce with fish and chips.

For an upscale twist, serve it with ossetra caviar or trout roe, either as a topping or on the side.

The dip can be prepared ahead of time. Its flavor intensifies over time, making it ideal to make a day before. Add fresh herbs right before serving to enhance its appearance and taste.

Personalize Your Dip

• While I prefer Mt. Olive pickles, feel free to use any brand you like.
• For a spicy kick, add hot banana peppers or pickled jalapeños.
• Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a different texture.
• Enhance the crunch with a topping of crushed pickle-flavored chips.
• Reduce preparation time by using store-bought dill pickle relish instead of chopping pickles.

More Pickle Delights

• Pickle Pizza
• Dill Pickle Tuna Salad
• Pickle Roasted Potatoes
• Fried Pickles