Homemade Ranch Dressing – Creamy Fresh Classic

Homemade Ranch Dressing delivers bold, fresh flavor with a smooth, creamy texture that store-bought versions never match. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients and comes together in minutes. It works perfectly for salads, dipping, and drizzling over your favorite meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tastes fresher than bottled ranch
• Uses simple pantry and fridge staples
• Comes together in just a few minutes
• Adjusts easily to taste and texture preferences
• Works as a dressing, dip, or sauce

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried chives
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Add mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk to a mixing bowl.
2. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
3. Add dill, parsley, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Stir until evenly mixed.
5. Add lemon juice and whisk again.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use more buttermilk for a thinner dressing
• Reduce buttermilk slightly for a thicker dip
• Add fresh herbs instead of dried for brighter flavor
• Increase garlic powder for a bolder taste
• Let the dressing chill longer for deeper flavor

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store ranch dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator
• Keep refrigerated for up to 7 days
• Stir well before each use
• Do not freeze, as texture changes after thawing
• Discard if separation or odor develops

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Drizzle over green salads or chopped salads
• Serve as a dip for fresh vegetables
• Use as a sauce for wraps or sandwiches
• Pair with baked potatoes or roasted vegetables
• Serve alongside chicken dishes or grain bowls

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes homemade ranch better than store-bought?

Homemade ranch uses fresh ingredients and no preservatives, which creates a cleaner, brighter flavor. You also control the thickness and seasoning.

Can I make ranch dressing thicker?

Yes. Reduce the buttermilk slightly or add extra sour cream to create a thicker consistency suitable for dipping.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes. Finely chop fresh dill, parsley, and chives. Fresh herbs add brighter flavor but shorten shelf life slightly.

How long does homemade ranch last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, homemade ranch stays fresh for up to one week.

Ready to Make It?

Homemade Ranch Dressing adds fresh flavor and creamy texture to everyday meals. It takes just minutes to prepare and instantly upgrades salads, snacks, and dinners. Save this recipe so you can skip bottled dressing and enjoy ranch made your way.

You Might Also Like

• Chocolate Truffles – Smooth chocolate truffles.
• Classic Sweet Cream Scones – Tender bakery-style scones perfect with jam and tea.
• Moist Chocolate Banana Muffins – Soft, rich muffins that freeze beautifully.
• Homemade Lemonade with Fresh Lemons – Bright, refreshing drink to pair with sweet breads.

Print