Fried Pickle Ranch Whopper Recipe

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The Fried Pickle Ranch Whopper recipe is a bold twist on the iconic Burger King classic that’s been tantalizing fast-food enthusiasts across the nation. If you’re anything like me, the idea of sinking your teeth into a perfectly flame-grilled patty with the crispy tang of fried pickles and the zesty zing of pickle ranch has you practically swooning.

What is Fried Pickle Ranch Whopper

The Fried Pickle Ranch Whopper is a limited-time burger introduced by Burger King. It features the classic Whopper, but with a unique twist that includes fried pickle chips, ranch sauce, and the usual Whopper ingredients like a flame-grilled beef patty, lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, and mayonnaise.

Ingredients for Fried Pickle Ranch Whopper

For the Burger:

• 1/4 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for the best flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large sesame seed bun
• 2 slices of Swiss cheese
• 2-3 slices of cooked bacon (crispy)
• Butter (for toasting the bun)

For the Fried Pickles:

• 1 cup dill pickle slices (drained and patted dry)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Pickle Ranch:

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice
• 1 teaspoon chopped dill (fresh or dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Toppings:

• Lettuce
• Any additional toppings of your liking

Instructions

Preparing the Fried Pickles:

1. Setup for Frying: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a deep skillet to 375°F (190°C). Ensure there’s enough oil to completely submerge the pickles.
2. Breading: While the oil is heating, prepare the breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, another with buttermilk, and the third with Panko breadcrumbs also seasoned with salt and pepper.
3. Dredge the Pickles: Working in batches, dredge the pickles first in flour, dip them in buttermilk, and then coat them with breadcrumbs. Ensure each pickle slice is well-coated at each step.
4. Frying: Gently lower the coated pickles into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Making the Pickle Ranch:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, pickle juice, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside.

Cooking the Burger:

1. Form Patties and Season: Form your ground beef into a 1/4 lb patty. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Grill Patties: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patty for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium doneness. In the last minute of cooking, add the Swiss cheese to melt on top of the patty.
3. Toast Bun: Butter the inside of the sesame seed bun and toast it on the grill or skillet until lightly golden.

Assembling the Whopper:

1. Bottom Bun: Spread a generous amount of pickle ranch on the bottom bun.
2. Build the Burger: Place the lettuce on the bottom bun, followed by the cheese-topped beef patty, crispy bacon slices, and a layer of fried pickles.
3. Top Bun: Spread more pickle ranch on the inside of the top bun and place it on top of the burger.

Tips for the Perfect Fried Pickle Ranch Whopper

• Dry the Pickles: After draining the pickle slices, ensure they are thoroughly dried. This helps the breading stick better and prevents the oil from splattering.
• Don’t Overcrowd: When frying the pickles or cooking the patties, avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and crisping.
• Customize Your Sauce: Adjust the amount of pickle juice in the ranch dressing to suit your taste for tanginess.
• Rest the Patty: Let the cooked patty rest for a few minutes before assembling the burger to preserve all those delicious juices.

What to serve in

Pairing the right sides with your Fried Pickle Ranch Whopper can elevate this delectable burger into a full-blown gourmet experience. Considering the rich flavors and textures of the burger, including the crispy fried pickles and the hearty beef patty, you’ll want sides that complement and balance these elements.

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potatoes offer a sweet and savory contrast that works beautifully with the tangy pickle ranch and the delicious burger. Cut the sweet potatoes into thin fries, toss them with olive oil, sea salt, and a touch of paprika, and bake until crispy. Their natural sweetness and crisp texture make them an irresistible companion to your burger.
• Classic Coleslaw: A side of coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch and a creamy texture that can cut through the richness of the burger. Combine shredded cabbage and carrots with a dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, a touch of sugar, and salt and pepper. The acidity and crunch of coleslaw offer a perfect balance to the meal.
• Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: For a lighter but flavorful side, roasted asparagus tossed with garlic and parmesan can’t be beaten. The nuttiness of the parmesan and the earthy flavor of the asparagus make this side dish a sophisticated addition to your Whopper meal.
• Baked Macaroni and Cheese: If you’re going for ultimate comfort food, a creamy, baked macaroni and cheese is a hearty companion to the Fried Pickle Ranch Whopper. The creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta can complement the textures and flavors of the burger, especially if you add a sharp cheese to cut through the richness.
• Onion Rings: Onion rings are a classic burger companion for a reason. Their crispy exterior and sweet, tender interior pair wonderfully with the different textures of the burger. For an extra layer of flavor, you could even use some of the pickle ranch as a dipping sauce.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob with butter, salt, and a sprinkle of chili powder offers a smoky sweetness that is delectable alongside the savory flavors of the burger. It’s a simple side that brings a bit of summer barbecue flair to your meal.
• Homemade Ranch Potato Wedges: Potato wedges seasoned and baked until golden brown, then dipped in the leftover pickle ranch dressing, magnificently complement the burger’s flavors. They are easy to prepare and can be seasoned to match the profile of your burger, making them a versatile and satisfying side dish.
• Salad with Avocado Dressing: For a lighter option, a green salad tossed with an avocado dressing can add a fresh, creamy element to the meal without weighing it down. Use greens like arugula or spinach for their peppery flavor and top with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a dressing made from blended avocado, a touch of garlic, lime juice, and olive oil.

Ingredients Substitutes

Creating a Fried Pickle Ranch Whopper can be a delightful cooking adventure.

For the Beef Patty

• Vegetarian/Vegan Alternative: Swap the beef patty with a plant-based patty. Brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods offer options that closely mimic the texture and flavor of beef.
• Poultry Alternative: Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter option. Season well to ensure richness in flavor.

For the Ranch Dressing

• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use a base of vegan mayonnaise mixed with plant-based milk (unsweetened and unflavored), a squeeze of lemon juice, and traditional ranch herbs and spices. Tofu-based dressings can also achieve a creamy consistency.
• Greek Yogurt Ranch: For a healthier twist that still uses dairy, substitute half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This will add a tangy flavor and increase the protein content.

For the Fried Pickles

• Gluten-Free Breading: For the breading, use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend mixed with cornmeal. This keeps the exterior crispy while being a safe option for those avoiding gluten.
• Baked Pickles Alternative: For a healthier version, instead of frying, you can bake your coated pickles on a wire rack at a high temperature until they’re crispy.

For the Whopper Bun

• Gluten-Free Option: Choose a gluten-free hamburger bun that suits your dietary needs. Many brands offer delicious alternatives that don’t compromise on texture.
• Keto/Low-Carb Alternative: To significantly lower the carbohydrate content, swap out the regular bun for lettuce wraps or portobello mushroom caps.

For the Cheese

• Lactose-Free Cheese: For those with lactose intolerance, use lactose-free cheese slices. Many brands offer varieties without lactose, such as cheddar or Swiss.
• Vegan Cheese: Many plant-based cheeses are made from nuts or soy. Look for one that melts well for the genuine Whopper experience.

Condiments and Vegetables

• Tomatoes, Onions, Lettuce: These are generally accessible, but for a twist or based on availability, you might consider using spinach instead of lettuce, caramelized onions instead of raw (for a sweeter, gentler onion flavor), or even roasted bell peppers for an added sweetness and texture.
• Relish or Salsa: If you don’t have pickles for the topping but still want a zesty, tangy element, consider using dill relish or chunky salsa.

Final Thoughts

Enjoy your homemade Fried Pickle Ranch Whopper with your favorite side of fries or onion rings for an actual fast-food experience at home!