Food News and Trends Trends Meet Magic Pickle Dip: The 3-Ingredient Recipe You Didn't Know You Needed Your party spread is about to get a little more zesty. By Sara Haas, RDN, LDN Sara Haas, RDN, LDN Sara Haas RDN, LDN, is a food and nutrition expert with formal training in the culinary arts. She works as a freelance writer, recipe developer, media authority, public speaker, and consultant dietitian/chef. Sara has over 20 years of experience as a registered and licensed dietitian. She has also been a professional chef for 15 years and a food photographer for 10 years. Allrecipes' editorial guidelines Published on February 8, 2024 Close Photo: Sara Haas Magic Pickle Dip is the recipe you didn’t know you needed. It’s the perfect combination of creamy, salty and crunchy. Not only is it a great way to showcase the versatility of pickles, but it’s a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with chips, pretzels, or cut veggies and you’ve become the hero of the party. What Is Magic Pickle Dip? Is there any magic involved in making this dip? No, of course not. It’s about as simple and un-magical as recipes come. Perhaps though, that’s what makes it magical. You only need a few pickle spears, cream cheese, and dried meat to make it. After a bit of chopping and stirring, it’s ready to go. And the umami flavors just can't be beat. How to Make Magic Pickle Dip The OG Magic Pickle Dip recipe here uses only three ingredients: diced pickle spears, an 8-ounce package of softened cream cheese, and a 2-ounce package of thinly sliced, chopped dried beef. There's no cooking involved, just place all of the ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. While it can be served right away, it’s best to chill for at least two hours to let the flavors meld. How to Make Magic Pickle Dip Your Own This recipe is fine as written, but there are plenty of upgrades you can make. For example, many readers commented on swapping some of the cream cheese for sour cream. This makes the dip especially creamy and thins it out, making it easier to scoop. Another reader suggested adding pickling liquid to the dip. A teaspoon or two will add a pop of acidity, some salt, and a few herbs and spices, which provide a delicious upgrade. If you like things spicy, add a bit of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce. Explore other pickle types—forgo the classic dill spear and try a hot and spicy or garlic version. Another pickle dip recipe on-site even adds more seasoning like Worcestershire sauce. Finally, if dried beef isn’t your favorite, leave it out, or do what I do, and swap in crispy bacon or prosciutto. Dotdash Meredith Food Studios My Modified Magic Pickle Dip Serves: 6 Ingredients: 4 ounces softened cream cheese1/4 cup sour cream3 dill pickle spears, diced2 teaspoons pickle juice1 tablespoon minced white onion1 or 2 large slices prosciutto or bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional) Directions: Mix all ingredients together. Chill for at least 1 hour, and serve. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit