Homemade Ranch Dressing
A quick and easy creamy ranch dressing made with pantry staples, perfect for salads, dips, or spreads. This fresh, preservative-free recipe is customizable and ready in just 5 minutes.
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight container (e.g., mason jar)
Ingredients
- ½ cup Mayonnaise provides creamy base
- ¼ cup Sour Cream adds tanginess
- ¼ cup Buttermilk for pourable consistency; or 1/4 cup milk with 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dried Dill herbaceous flavor
- 1 tsp Dried Parsley earthy flavor
- 1 tsp Dried Chives mild onion-like taste
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder savory depth
- ½ tsp Onion Powder subtle sweetness
- ¼ tsp Salt enhances flavors
- ¼ tsp Black Pepper slight kick
- 1 tsp Lemon Juice optional, for extra tang
Instructions
- Combine the Wet Ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, and 1/4 cup buttermilk until smooth and creamy. If using a buttermilk substitute, mix 1/4 cup milk with 1 tsp lemon juice and let sit for 5 minutes before adding.
- Add the Seasonings – Stir in 1 tsp dried dill, 1 tsp dried parsley, 1 tsp dried chives, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp lemon juice (if using). Mix thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
- Adjust the Consistency – Check the texture. For a pourable dressing, ensure it’s slightly runny; add 1 tbsp buttermilk or milk if too thick. For a thicker dip, add 1–2 tbsp more mayonnaise or leave as is.
- Taste and Tweak – Taste the dressing and adjust with more lemon juice for tang, a pinch of salt for savoriness, or other seasonings to preference.
- Chill and Serve – Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors. Stir before serving.
Notes
Substitutions: For dairy-free, use vegan mayonnaise, dairy-free sour cream, and plant-based milk. For low-fat, opt for light mayonnaise and sour cream. For a vibrant flavor, use 1 tbsp each of fresh dill, parsley, and chives instead of dried.
Expert Tips: Use a whisk for a smoother texture. Chill for 2–4 hours for deeper flavor. For a quick version, use 1 tbsp store-bought ranch seasoning mix with mayo and buttermilk.
Troubleshooting: If too thick, add milk 1 tbsp at a time. If too tangy, reduce lemon juice or add a pinch of sugar. For a silky texture, blend with an immersion blender.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Stir before serving. Do not freeze, as it may affect texture.
Variations: Add 1/4 tsp smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, 1 tbsp fresh cilantro and a pinch of cumin for a Mexican twist, or a dash of cayenne for spice.