Creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh herbs — this homemade ranch dressing tastes so much better than anything in a bottle.
💚 Why You’ll Love It
There’s “ranch,” and then there’s the good ranch — you know what I mean. The kind that makes you want to dip everything in it. This homemade ranch dressing is that kind.
Made with real buttermilk, fresh herbs, sour cream, and lemon juice, it’s rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Whether you drizzle it over a crisp salad, dip chicken tenders, or pour it over a baked potato, this recipe will quickly become your go-to.
Honestly? It’s restaurant-quality ranch — Cheesecake Factory-level good.
🧂 Ingredients
- ½ cup buttermilk – The classic base for true ranch flavor.
- ½ cup mayonnaise – Keeps the texture creamy and smooth.
- ¼ cup sour cream – Adds tang and body.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (or white vinegar)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can substitute dried — just use one-third the amount.
🥣 Directions
- Combine the base:
In a food processor or medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk until smooth. - Add the flavor:
Mix in the herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend or whisk until everything is well combined and creamy. - Taste and adjust:
Add more lemon juice for brightness or a little extra buttermilk if you prefer a thinner consistency. - Chill and serve:
Transfer the dressing to a jar or squeeze bottle. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
🧑🍳 Tips for the Best Ranch
- Fresh herbs = best flavor. If you can, use fresh chives, parsley, and dill — it makes all the difference.
- Adjust consistency. For a thicker dip, use less buttermilk; for a pourable dressing, add a splash more.
- Swap lemon juice for vinegar if you’re out — both add the perfect tang.
- Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 7 days in a sealed jar or bottle.
🌿 Serving Suggestions
- As a dip for veggies or fries 🥕🍟
- Drizzled over salads or grain bowls 🥗
- With chicken tenders, wings, or pizza crust 🍕
- On baked potatoes or burgers 🍔
✨ Homemade ranch dressing hits differently — once you make it from scratch, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.
