If you love dill pickles and a kick of heat, you’ll flip for this Spicy Dill Pickle Dip. It’s creamy, tangy, and has just enough spice to keep everyone going back for “one more bite.” This is my upgrade to the classic dill pickle cream cheese dip I’ve been making for years but with jalapeños and red pepper flakes stirred in for that perfect party-worthy punch. I first served this at a game-day spread last season, and let’s just say the chips disappeared before the wings did! Can’t get enough pickle dips? My Dill Pickle Dip with ham delivers a hearty, satisfying flavor for any gathering.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Cream Cheese: Let it sit out so it mixes smooth. (Tip: I sometimes microwave it in 20-second bursts, just don’t let it melt into soup.)
How To Soften Cream Cheese Quickly
If you forgot to take out the cream cheese for this recipe, here are a couple of options to get it to room temperature quickly:
Warm Water Method: Place the wrapped block of cream cheese in a bowl of warm water for about 10-15 minutes. Flip it over every few minutes or so.
Microwave Method: Remove the cream cheese from its packaging and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave it on low power in 15-20-second intervals until it reaches the desired softness. Be careful not to overheat it, as cream cheese can quickly become too runny or even melt.
- Pickles: The star of the show! Chop them finely for bursts of tang in every bite. Save a few slices for garnish if you want a pretty presentation.
- Jalapeño Pepper: Chop a jalapeño to add some heat. Take out the seeds if you want it milder, or leave them for extra spice. I like to save a few slices to use as a garnish, too!
- Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix: for an easy burst of flavor, add dry ranch seasoning mix! For the most flavor, make your own!
- Green Onions: Stir in some diced green onions for a fresh, mild onion flavor. If you don’t have green onions, you can use finely chopped chives or a little sweet onion instead.
- Crushed Red Pepper: Add a little bit of crushed red pepper, also called red pepper flakes, for a little extra heat. Adjust the amount to make the dip as spicy as you like!
Can I Use Pickle Relish Instead of Diced Dill Pickles?
Yes, you can use dill relish instead of chopped pickles, but it’ll taste a little sweeter, and the texture is smoother. I prefer the crunch of real pickles.
How Spicy Is This Dip?
When I tested it, I’d call it medium heat; noticeable but not overpowering. My kids found it “hot,” while my husband just kept adding more pepper flakes. The beauty is you control it!
Best Ways To Serve Spicy Dill Pickle Dip
The best ways to serve Spicy Dill Pickle Dip are simple! Just grab some crackers, homemade tortilla chips, or fresh vegetables and dig in! Make sure to add some dip to your Vegetable Tray, too! I also like to serve it with sandwiches or burgers for a little extra flavor. Whether chilled or at room temperature, this party dip is always a hit with friends and family.
Can I Make Spicy Dill Pickle Dip Ahead Of Time?
Absolutely! In fact, if you have time, I highly recommend making the dip in advance. You can make Spicy Dill Pickle Dip a few hours or even a day before serving. Just cover it tightly and keep it in the refrigerator. Chilling the dip allows the flavors to all come together, making it even more creamy, tangy, and flavorful. This makes it an easy party dip or game day appetizer that’s ready whenever your guests arrive.
How to Store & Freeze Spicy Dill Pickle Dip
Store your Spicy Dill Pickle Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Keeping it covered prevents it from drying out and keeps the flavors fresh. To freeze, place in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir before serving.
Reader FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese?
Not for the full recipe, it’ll be too runny. But, you can replace half the cream cheese for a lighter dip.
What kind of pickles are best?
Classic dill works great. Kosher dill adds more garlic punch, and spicy pickles will double up the heat. Avoid sweet pickles here.
Is this dip keto-friendly?
Yes! At 2g carbs per serving (depending on your pickles), it works well for low-carb diets.
Spicy Dill Pickle Dip
Ingredients
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (143 g) dill pickles, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1 large jalapeño pepper, seeded, finely chopped, plus more for garnish
- 3 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning
- 2 tablespoons green onions, diced
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
For Serving
- crackers
- tortilla chips
- fresh vegetables
Instructions
- To a medium bowl, add the cream cheese. Using a hand mixer on medium speed, beat until smooth and creamy.
- Add the dill pickles, jalapeño, ranch seasoning, green onions, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Garnish with extra dill pickles and sliced jalapeños.
- Serve chilled (about 30 minutes in the refrigerator) or at room temperature with crackers, tortilla chips, or vegetables.
Did you make this recipe?
You can tag me at @iamhomesteader.
What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
Oh, wow, I really liked this dip! It had the perfect kick to it, and I kept going back for more!
Elizabeth
I love this dip! It has the perfect spice level, and I really liked it with crackers.
Stephanie
This is spicy for those who are not a huge fan of spice. But, it is really full of pickle flavor!
Bella
I like spicy foods, so I loved this dip! I would even add a few more red pepper flakes. If you love pickles, you will love this.
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