Homemade Ranch Dressing is a creamy, tangy delight that elevates every dish it touches. With just 5 minutes of prep, you can whip up a batch of this velvety dressing that’s bursting with fresh herbs and zesty flavors. Let it chill for 2 hours, and it transforms into a cool, rich condiment perfect for salads, veggies, or dipping. The smooth texture and balanced blend of garlic, buttermilk, and dill make it irresistibly satisfying.
This dressing isn’t just delicious—it’s versatile and healthier than store-bought versions. Each 2-tablespoon serving is packed with flavor without overwhelming your plate. Whether drizzled over crisp greens or paired with crunchy snacks, it’s a fresh, homemade upgrade you’ll want to keep on hand.
What You’ll Need for Homemade Ranch Dressing
- 1 cup (236 g) mayo (use full-fat for creamier texture)
- ⅓ cup (80 g) sour cream (can substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor)
- ½ cup (118 ml) buttermilk (or make your own by adding 1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar to ½ cup milk)
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)
- 1 Tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice (lemon juice adds a fresh, zesty twist)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 clove fresh garlic, minced)
- ¼ teaspoon table salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder (or 1 Tablespoon finely minced fresh onion)
How to Make Homemade Ranch Dressing
- Combine all ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, add the mayo, sour cream, buttermilk, olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, dried parsley, sugar (if using), garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and onion powder.
- Whisk thoroughly: Use a whisk or fork to mix everything together until the dressing is smooth and fully combined. Make sure there are no lumps.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the dressing to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and develop.
- Serve: Give the dressing a quick stir before serving. Enjoy as a dip, salad dressing, or drizzle over your favorite dishes!
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Ranch Dressing
This homemade ranch dressing is incredibly versatile! Drizzle it over crisp salads, use it as a dip for fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers, or pair it with chicken wings, pizza, or even baked potatoes. It’s also a fantastic spread for sandwiches or wraps—just thin it out with a splash of buttermilk if needed.
Storage Tips: Keep Your Ranch Fresh
Store your ranch dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Give it a quick stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly over time. For longer storage, consider freezing it in small portions, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Customize It: Fun Variations to Try
Make this recipe your own by adding a personal twist! Stir in fresh herbs like dill or chives for a brighter flavor, or add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky kick. For a spicy version, mix in a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. The possibilities are endless!
Time-Saving Hacks: Quick Ranch in a Pinch
If you’re short on time, skip the chilling step and serve the dressing immediately—it’ll still taste great! For an even faster option, use a blender or food processor to combine the ingredients in just seconds. Perfect for last-minute meals or snacks!
Common Questions: Ranch Dressing Made Easy
Wondering if you can substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier, healthier twist, or swap lemon juice for white vinegar for a citrusy flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ½ cup of milk with ½ teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Homemade Ranch Dressing
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayo (236 g)
- ⅓ cup sour cream (80 g)
- ½ cup buttermilk (118 ml)
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar optional
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon table salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl and whisk until thoroughly combined
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours (to give the flavors time to develop) before serving.