Spicy Ranch Recipe For Fried Pickles – Taste Just Home

By Mary Lee RD | Published on September 28, 2024

Before diving into the recipe, let’s talk about what pairs well with fried pickles and spicy ranch. Picture a gameday spread filled with buffalo wings, loaded nachos, and juicy sliders. Fried pickles fit perfectly into this scrumptious ensemble. 

Or perhaps a more laid-back evening with fish and chips—trust me, it’s a game-changer. They even work as an unexpected appetizer at a summer BBQ beside grilled burgers and hot dogs. Whatever the occasion, fried pickles should be your go-to.

Best Spicy Ranch Recipe For Fried Pickles

Fried pickles have always held a special place in Southern cuisine, but when you dip them in a spicy ranch sauce, they reach a new level of deliciousness. Today, I’m going to share a spicy ranch recipe for fried pickles that’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Trust me, this is a combination you won’t want to miss.

What Is Spicy Ranch Recipe for Fried Pickles?

Spicy ranch for fried pickles is a delightful dip blending the cool creaminess of ranch dressing with a zesty kick from hot sauce and spices. When paired with the crispy, salty fried pickles, every bite creates a dance of flavors in your mouth—perfect for any gathering.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Spicy Ranch Recipes for Fried Pickles?

You might be wondering what sets this recipe apart. Firstly, it’s super easy. We’re using store-bought ranch dressing as the base, but adding our own twist with Frank’s RedHot Sauce and spices. Secondly, it’s versatile. You can adjust the heat to your liking—mild or fiery. Lastly, the blend of smoked paprika and briny pickle juice in the coating ensures each bite is packed with flavor.

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How Does It Taste Like?

Imagine the tangy zing of dill pickles encased in a crispy shell, dipped in a creamy, spicy sauce that makes your taste buds sing. It combines crunch, spice, and tang to create a snack that’s hard to put down.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

For the Pickles:

  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup briny pickle juice
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Dill pickle chips (about 1 to 2 cups)

For the Spicy Ranch:

  • 2 teaspoons Frank’s RedHot Sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 cup store-bought ranch dressing
Spicy Ranch Recipe For Fried Pickles

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pickles

First things first, lay out your dill pickle chips on a paper towel to drain excess moisture. You want them as dry as possible to retain the crispiness.

Step 2: Create the Coating

Mix the whole milk with the briny pickle juice in a shallow dish. In another bowl, combine the flour, sea salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. This flour mixture is going to make that golden-brown crust.

Step 3: Dredge the Pickles

Now, dip each pickle chip first in the milk mixture, then in the flour mixture. Make sure they’re well-coated. Set them aside on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Fry the Pickles

Heat oil to 375°F in a deep fryer or a large skillet. Carefully add the pickles in batches, frying until they’re golden brown—about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Spicy Ranch

While the pickles cool slightly, it’s time to make your spicy ranch. Simply mix the store-bought ranch dressing with Frank’s RedHot Sauce and onion powder. Blend well until combined.

Step 6: Serve

Arrange the fried pickles on a serving platter with a side of spicy ranch. Dig in!

Tips & Tricks on Making Spicy Ranch Recipe for Fried Pickles

  • Temperature Control: Ensure your oil is at 375°F for optimal frying. Too hot, and they’ll burn; too cold, and they’ll be soggy.
  • Dry Pickles: Make sure the pickle chips are as dry as possible before dredging. Pat them down with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  • Consistent Size: Ensure that your pickle slices are of consistent thickness. This helps in even cooking.
  • Rest After Coating: Let the coated pickles rest for a couple of minutes before frying. It helps the coating adhere better.
  • Season Immediately: Sprinkle a bit of salt on the pickles right after frying while they are still hot.
Easy Spicy Ranch Recipe For Fried Pickles

Nutrition Information

How Do I Store This Dish?

If you happen to have leftovers, store the fried pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for about 2 days, but for best results, reheat them in an oven or air fryer to get back some of that original crispiness.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Spicy Ranch Recipe for Fried Pickles?

Buttermilk for Whole Milk: Adds a tangy flavor while maintaining moisture in the coating.

Panko Breadcrumbs for Flour: For an extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of flour.

Greek Yogurt for Ranch Dressing: A healthier, protein-packed alternative that still retains creaminess.

Sriracha for Frank’s RedHot Sauce: If you prefer a different kind of heat, sriracha works wonderfully.

Sweet Pickles: For a different flavor profile, try using sweet pickles instead of dill.

Spicy Ranch Recipe For Fried Pickles

Spicy Ranch Recipe For Fried Pickles

Mary Lee RD
Fried pickles have always held a special place in Southern cuisine, but when you dip them in a spicy ranch sauce, they reach a new level of deliciousness.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 7 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 158 kcal

Equipment

  • Shallow dish
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Ingredients
  

For the Pickles:

  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup briny pickle juice
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Dill pickle chips enough to coat about 1 to 2 cups; adjust as desired

For the Spicy Ranch:

  • 2 teaspoons Frank’s RedHot Sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 cup store-bought ranch dressing

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Pickles

  • First things first, lay out your dill pickle chips on a paper towel to drain excess moisture. You want them as dry as possible to retain the crispiness.

Step 2: Create the Coating

  • Mix the whole milk with the briny pickle juice in a shallow dish. In another bowl, combine the flour, sea salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. This flour mixture is going to make that golden-brown crust.

Step 3: Dredge the Pickles

  • Now, dip each pickle chip first in the milk mixture, then in the flour mixture. Make sure they’re well-coated. Set them aside on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Fry the Pickles

  • Heat oil to 375°F in a deep fryer or a large skillet. Carefully add the pickles in batches, frying until they’re golden brown—about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Spicy Ranch

  • While the pickles cool slightly, it’s time to make your spicy ranch. Simply mix the store-bought ranch dressing with Frank’s RedHot Sauce and onion powder. Blend well until combined.

Step 6: Serve

  • Arrange the fried pickles on a serving platter with a side of spicy ranch. Dig in!

Notes

  • Temperature Control: Ensure your oil is at 375°F for optimal frying. Too hot, and they’ll burn; too cold, and they’ll be soggy.
  • Dry Pickles: Make sure the pickle chips are as dry as possible before dredging. Pat them down with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  • Consistent Size: Ensure that your pickle slices are of consistent thickness. This helps in even cooking.
  • Rest After Coating: Let the coated pickles rest for a couple of minutes before frying. It helps the coating adhere better.
  • Season Immediately: Sprinkle a bit of salt on the pickles right after frying while they are still hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 158kcal
Keyword Spicy Ranch Recipe For Fried Pickles
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and double-check that the pickles and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Q2: Can I bake the pickles instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 425°F, place the coated pickles on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

Q3: Is it possible to make the spicy ranch milder?

If you prefer less heat, simply reduce the amount of Frank’s RedHot Sauce or opt for a milder hot sauce variant.

Q4: Could I use homemade pickles?

Homemade pickles can definitely be used. Just ensure they have a good briny flavor and are properly drained.

Q5: What oil is best for frying?

Peanut oil is great for frying due to its high smoke point. Canola or vegetable oil are also good alternatives.

Conclusion

Fried pickles dipped in spicy ranch sauce are a match made in heaven. This recipe is simple yet impressive, perfect for any gathering or just a fun family dinner. With the tips, tricks, and nutritional information provided, you’re all set to make this dish flawless every time. Make it, love it, and watch it disappear within minutes. Enjoy cooking, and happy snacking!

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Hi! I'm Mary Lee. I love helping people eat yummy and healthy food. I live in Oregon. Cooking is my happy place. Let's make tasty dishes together!

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