Creamy, tangy, and herby, this Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe is a kitchen essential that beats any store-bought version with its bold flavor and effortless prep.
With just a handful of ingredients, this dressing transforms into a dip, salad companion, or sandwich spread that’s cool, rich, and incredibly satisfying.
Main Ingredients That Make Homemade Ranch Shine
- Buttermilk – Brings a signature tang and smooth texture that makes the dressing pourable and refreshing.
- Mayonnaise – Adds body and richness, creating that indulgent, creamy mouthfeel ranch lovers crave.
- Sour Cream – Layers in a subtle tartness and velvety consistency that balances the flavors beautifully.
- Garlic Powder – Infuses a gentle garlicky warmth that deepens the overall flavor without overwhelming.
- Onion Powder – Rounds out the savory notes and adds a mild sweetness that complements the creaminess.
- Dill – Delivers that unmistakable ranch herbaceous punch with its bright, grassy aroma.
- Parsley – Adds freshness and color, enhancing both flavor and appearance with every spoonful.
- White Vinegar – Sharpens the flavors and cuts through the cream for balance and brightness.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and lifting all the other flavors into harmony.
Whip It Up: How to Make This Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe
Whisk everything together in one bowl—no fancy equipment, no fuss. Chill it for a couple of hours to let the flavors meld into creamy perfection.
Whether you’re spooning it over a crisp salad or dipping hot wings straight into it, this ranch is ready to deliver.
Creamy Secrets: Tips to Perfect Your Ranch Every Time
Letting the dressing rest in the fridge for a few hours is the not-so-secret trick to next-level flavor. The dried herbs rehydrate and infuse the creamy base, making every bite better than the last.
For a thicker dip-style ranch, reduce the buttermilk slightly. Prefer a lighter drizzle for salads? Just add a splash more. Fresh herbs are a great upgrade if you’ve got them on hand—chopped chives, parsley, and dill bring extra vibrancy.
If you’re going dairy-free, swap out the buttermilk and sour cream with plant-based alternatives and a touch of lemon juice for tang. This ranch can flex to your preferences without losing its creamy soul.
Keeping It Fresh: How to Store Your Homemade Ranch
Store your homemade ranch dressing in a mason jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Shake or stir before each use, as natural separation can occur. Avoid freezing—its creamy components don’t thaw well and can become grainy. Enjoy it fresh and vibrant while it’s at its best!
Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper or to taste
- 1 tsp onion powder or 2 Tbsp finely chopped chives
- 1/2 tsp dried dill or 1 Tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder or 3 medium garlic cloves (1 Tbsp finely grated garlic)
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt plus more to taste
- 1 tsp dried parsley leaves or 2 Tbsp finely chopped Italian parsley
- 1/2 cup cold sour cream
- 1/2 cup cold buttermilk or kefir
Instructions
- Whisk all the listed ingredients thoroughly in a medium mixing bowl until the mixture is fully blended and smooth. Taste and adjust the salt level as preferred; for a salad dressing, about 3/4 teaspoon of salt enhances the flavor, while 1/2 teaspoon suffices when used as a dip. Cover the dressing and place it in the refrigerator for no less than 2 hours prior to serving to allow the flavors to develop.
