There’s nothing quite like the creamy, tangy taste of homemade ranch dressing. Say goodbye to store-bought versions—this recipe is packed with fresh flavors that will elevate your salads, veggies, and snacks. Made with a perfect blend of herbs, spices, and a rich, creamy base, this ranch dressing is so delicious you’ll want to drizzle it on everything!
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Ranch
- Incredible Flavor – A perfect balance of fresh herbs and tangy buttermilk.
- Versatile – Use it as a salad dressing, dip, or spread.
- Quick & Easy – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Customizable – Adjust seasonings to match your taste.
Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never want to go back!
Ingredients
For the 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
This mix makes about 3½ cups, so you’ll have plenty on hand for future batches!
For the Ranch Dressing:
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp of the prepared dry ranch mix
Kitchen Equipment
To make this recipe, you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
- Whisk – To blend everything smoothly.
- Airtight container – For storing dry ranch mix.
- Measuring cups & spoons – For precise measurements.
- Jar or bottle – For storing the prepared dressing.
How to Make Homemade Ranch Dressing
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ranch Mix
- Combine Dry Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together black pepper, parsley flakes, garlic salt, kosher salt, granulated garlic, granulated onion, and dill weed.
- Store the Mix – Transfer to an airtight container for long-lasting freshness.
Pro Tip: This dry mix makes a great homemade gift—just package it in a jar with instructions!
Step 2: Make the Ranch Dressing
- Mix the Base – In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, sour cream, and lemon juice.
- Add the Seasoning – Stir in 2 tbsp of the dry ranch mix and whisk until smooth.
- Chill – Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips for the Best Homemade Ranch
- Adjust the Consistency – Add more buttermilk for a thinner dressing or reduce it for a thicker dip.
- Enhance the Flavor – Add extra dill, parsley, or a splash of vinegar for a tangy kick.
- Make It Spicy – Stir in cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy ranch variation.
Serving Suggestions
Homemade ranch is incredibly versatile! Try it with:
- Salads – Drizzle over greens or pasta salad.
- Veggies – Perfect for dipping carrots, celery, and cucumbers.
- Pizza – Use as a dipping sauce for extra flavor.
- Buffalo Wings – A cooling dip for spicy wings.
- Baked Potatoes – A delicious topping for loaded potatoes.
Storing Homemade Ranch
- Refrigerate the Dressing – Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Store the Dry Mix – Keep in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
- Shake Before Serving – The dressing may separate in the fridge, so give it a quick stir before using.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Low-Fat Ingredients?
Yes! You can use low-fat mayo, light sour cream, and non-fat buttermilk for a lighter version.
Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried?
Absolutely! Swap in fresh parsley and dill—use three times the amount of fresh compared to dried for the best flavor.
Can I Make This Dairy-Free?
Yes! Use dairy-free mayo, almond or soy milk with lemon juice (as a buttermilk substitute), and dairy-free sour cream.
Why Does It Taste Better After Chilling?
Chilling allows the flavors to blend and intensify, creating a more delicious and well-balanced dressing.
Try This Homemade Ranch Today!
This Homemade Ranch Dressing is creamy, flavorful, and so much better than store-bought! Whether you’re using it as a dip, dressing, or spread, it’s sure to become a kitchen staple.
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