Ranch Dressing

Ranch dressing is a creamy, tangy classic that’s beloved as a salad dressing, veggie dip, or drizzle for everything from pizza to chicken wings. Making ranch from scratch is quick, easy, and so much fresher than store-bought—once you try it, you’ll never go back!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Takes just minutes to make with pantry staples
• Ultra-creamy and packed with fresh herbs and zesty flavor
• Customizable to make it thicker for dips or thinner for salads
• No artificial flavors or preservatives
• Great for meal prep—stays fresh for up to a week

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• Buttermilk (or milk + lemon juice as a substitute)
• Fresh lemon juice
• Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, chives)
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dried dill (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and black pepper

directions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk until smooth.
2. Stir in the lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more herbs or buttermilk to reach your desired consistency.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Give it a good stir before serving.

Servings and timing

• Makes about 1¼ cups
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Chill time: 30 minutes (recommended)
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra tang and protein.
• Add a splash of hot sauce or cayenne for a spicy kick.
• Blend in avocado for a creamy avocado ranch.
• Make it dairy-free by using vegan mayo, non-dairy yogurt, and almond milk.
• Use dried herbs if fresh aren’t available—just reduce the amount slightly.

storage/reheating

• Store ranch dressing in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Stir well before each use.
• Do not freeze, as the texture may separate.

FAQs

Can I make ranch dressing without buttermilk?

Yes! Use regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s tang.

Is homemade ranch healthier than store-bought?

It can be—there are no preservatives or additives, and you can control the ingredients.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How do I make ranch dressing thicker for dipping?

Use less buttermilk or substitute Greek yogurt for a thicker texture.

Can I make ranch dressing vegan?

Absolutely—use vegan mayo, non-dairy yogurt, and your favorite plant-based milk.

How long does homemade ranch last?

Up to 1 week when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Why does my ranch taste bland?

Try adding a bit more salt, herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.

Can I use this as a marinade?

Yes! It’s great for marinating chicken or vegetables.

What’s the best way to serve ranch dressing?

As a salad dressing, veggie dip, wing sauce, or drizzle for pizza and sandwiches.

Can I freeze ranch dressing?

No, it doesn’t freeze well—the creamy texture will separate when thawed.

Conclusion

Homemade ranch dressing is creamy, fresh, and bursting with herby flavor—way better than anything you’ll find in a bottle. Whip up a batch in minutes, and enjoy this versatile dressing and dip all week long!

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