Step 1

Heat ¾-inch of vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet until a deep-fry thermometer registers 375˚.

Step 2

In a wide, shallow bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic and onion powders. In a separate wide, shallow bowl, whisk the buttermilk and egg to combine.

Step 3

Place ¼ of the pickle slices in the buttermilk mixture and gently stir with a fork to coat.  Using a slotted spoon, drain the pickles well, place them in the flour mixture and toss to combine. Add the pickles to the skillet and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2 minutes. Using a clean slotted spoon or a spider, transfer the pickles to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with the remaining 3 batches of pickles. Serve immediately with ranch dressing for dipping.