Name: Ranch Dressing
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Ranch Dressing:; ½ cup sour cream; ½ cup mayonnaise; ⅓ cup buttermilk (or whole milk); 1 tsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp dried dill; ½ tsp dried parsley; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp fine sea salt; Pinch of ground black pepper

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ranch dressing is a classic favorite that can elevate any dish, from salads to vegetables to dipping your favorite snacks. This homemade version is creamy, tangy, and full of flavor with just the right balance of spices. It’s quick to make, taking only 5 minutes, and can be stored in your fridge for up to a week, giving you a convenient and versatile dressing option for any meal. Ranch Dressing

Ingredients

½ cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
⅓ cup buttermilk (or whole milk)
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp dried dill
½ tsp dried parsley
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp fine sea salt
Pinch of ground black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, dried dill, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Once everything is blended together, you can use the dressing immediately or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10 servings (about 2 tablespoons per serving)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

Add extra tang: For a more tangy flavor, you can increase the apple cider vinegar by 1 teaspoon, especially if you’re using milk instead of buttermilk.
Herb variations: You can adjust the herbs based on your preference. Fresh parsley or chives can add a burst of flavor, or you can switch the dried dill with fresh dill for a fresher taste.
Spicy Ranch: For a spicy kick, mix in some hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to taste.

Storage/Reheating

Store this ranch dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. If the dressing thickens over time, you can thin it out with a little more buttermilk or milk.
This dressing doesn’t require reheating, but you can adjust the consistency with a small amount of milk if needed.

FAQs

How long does homemade ranch dressing last in the fridge?

Homemade ranch dressing can last up to one week in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can use regular milk, but buttermilk gives the dressing a tangy flavor that milk alone may not provide.

Is there a dairy-free version of ranch dressing?

Yes, you can substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives, and use almond milk or another plant-based milk in place of buttermilk.

Can I make ranch dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! This ranch dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. It’s actually better when it sits for a while to allow the flavors to meld together.

What can I use ranch dressing for besides salads?

Ranch dressing is a versatile condiment. It works great as a dip for vegetables, chips, or wings, and can also be used as a topping for baked potatoes or sandwiches.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs for dried. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried to get the same flavor.

Is ranch dressing gluten-free?

Yes, this homemade ranch dressing is gluten-free, as long as you ensure that all the ingredients you’re using, such as mayonnaise and sour cream, are free from gluten.

Can I make this ranch dressing without vinegar?

If you don’t want to use vinegar, you can omit it, but it may alter the tangy flavor. Alternatively, you could replace it with a small amount of lemon juice.

How do I make ranch dressing thinner?

If you prefer a thinner consistency, simply add more buttermilk or milk until it reaches your desired texture.

Can I freeze ranch dressing?

It’s not recommended to freeze ranch dressing, as the ingredients may separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge.

Conclusion

This homemade ranch dressing is the perfect addition to any meal, offering a creamy and tangy flavor that’s both simple and satisfying. With a quick prep time and just a few ingredients, you’ll have a fresh dressing that can be customized to your tastes. Store it in the fridge and enjoy it all week long, whether as a dip or a dressing!

Emma

Ranch Dressing