Nothing beats the creamy, tangy, and herb-packed flavor of homemade ranch dressing. Skip the store-bought bottles—this ultimate recipe transforms salads, veggies, and snacks with bold, irresistible taste. Bursting with fresh herbs and spices, this ranch is so versatile you’ll want to drizzle it on everything from wings to baked potatoes.
Advertisements
Ingredients
Dry Ranch Mix:
- ¼ cup black pepper
- 1½ cups parsley flakes
- ½ cup garlic salt
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- ¼ cup granulated garlic
- ¾ cup granulated onion
- 2 tbsp dill weed
Ranch Dressing:
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp dry ranch mix
Tip: This dry mix makes about 3½ cups, so you’ll have plenty to whip up ranch anytime.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Airtight container
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Jar or bottle for storing dressing
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ranch Mix
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix black pepper, parsley, garlic salt, kosher salt, granulated garlic, granulated onion, and dill weed.
- Store: Transfer the dry mix to an airtight container for freshness.
Pro Tip: Package this dry mix in small jars as a homemade gift with a recipe tag.
Step 2: Make the Ranch Dressing
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, sour cream, and lemon juice.
- Add Dry Mix: Stir in 2 tbsp of your dry ranch mix until fully combined.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours for a rich, creamy flavor.
Pro Tips
- Adjust Thickness: Use more buttermilk for a thinner dressing or less for a thicker dip.
- Boost Flavor: Add extra dill or parsley for a herbier kick.
- Add Zing: A splash of white vinegar or extra lemon juice adds tanginess.
- Spicy Ranch: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for heat.
Why This Recipe Works
- Bold Flavor: Fresh herbs and a perfect spice balance make it stand out.
- Versatile: Use as a salad dressing, veggie dip, sandwich spread, or pizza drizzle.
- Easy: Minimal prep with ingredients you likely already have.
- Customizable: Modify creaminess, spice, or tanginess to suit your taste.
Advertisements
Substitutions & Variations
- Low-Fat Version: Use light mayo, light sour cream, and low-fat buttermilk.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free mayo, sour cream, and unsweetened almond milk + lemon juice.
- Fresh Herbs: Use 3x the amount of fresh parsley and dill for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide
- Refrigerate: Store dressing in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Dry Mix: Keep in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
- Shake Before Serving: Dressing may separate slightly; stir or shake before using.
Serving Ideas
- Drizzle over green or pasta salads
- Dip carrots, celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers
- Spread on sandwiches or wraps
- Use as a buffalo wing dip
- Drizzle over baked potatoes or loaded skins
- Serve with pizza or garlic bread
Advertisements
Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate – 2 tbsp)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 11g
- Carbs: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it low-fat?
Yes! Use light mayo, sour cream, and buttermilk. Flavor stays creamy and delicious.
Can I use fresh herbs?
Absolutely! Triple the amount compared to dried herbs for full flavor.
Advertisements
How long does it last?
Dressing lasts 1 week in the fridge; dry mix lasts up to 6 months airtight.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute with dairy-free mayo, sour cream, and unsweetened almond milk + lemon juice.
Why chill before serving?
Chilling allows flavors to blend fully, creating a richer, creamier dressing.
This homemade ranch dressing is creamy, tangy, and packed with herbaceous flavor. Simple to make, endlessly versatile, and far superior to store-bought options, it will quickly become your go-to dressing for salads, dips, and more.
Share this recipe with friends and family, and enjoy the best ranch you’ve ever made!
Ultimate Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Airtight container
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Jar or bottle for storing dressing
Ingredients
Dry Ranch Mix:
- ¼ cup black pepper
- 1½ cups parsley flakes
- ½ cup garlic salt
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- ¼ cup granulated garlic
- ¾ cup granulated onion
- 2 tbsp dill weed
Ranch Dressing:
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp buttermilk
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp dry ranch mix
- Tip: This dry mix makes about 3½ cups, so you’ll have plenty to whip up ranch anytime.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ranch Mix
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix black pepper, parsley, garlic salt, kosher salt, granulated garlic, granulated onion, and dill weed.
- Store: Transfer the dry mix to an airtight container for freshness.
- Pro Tip: Package this dry mix in small jars as a homemade gift with a recipe tag.
Step 2: Make the Ranch Dressing
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, sour cream, and lemon juice.
- Add Dry Mix: Stir in 2 tbsp of your dry ranch mix until fully combined.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours for a rich, creamy flavor.
Notes
- Make extra dry mix to always have on hand.
- Adjust thickness to preference.
- Perfect for gifts in jars.
Advertisements