There’s a world of difference between “the good ranch” — you know, the kind you get at a great restaurant — and the stuff that comes in a bottle at the grocery store. Once you make this Homemade Ranch Dressing, you’ll never want to go back to the store-bought kind again.
This recipe is creamy, tangy, herby, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for salads, dipping veggies, chicken tenders, fries, or even pizza crust (no judgment here). Ranch dressing is one of those nostalgic comfort foods that instantly makes everything taste better — especially if you grew up in the Midwest like I did.
My personal gold standard for ranch dressing has always been The Cheesecake Factory version — and this recipe absolutely holds its own. In fact, I might even dare say…it’s better.
🧄 Ingredients
- ½ cup buttermilk — real buttermilk gives that classic tangy flavor.
- ½ cup mayonnaise — for a creamy, rich base.
- ½ cup sour cream — adds that signature zesty depth.
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (or white vinegar as an alternative)
- Salt & freshly ground pepper, to taste
🥣 Directions
- Combine the creamy base.
In a medium bowl (or food processor), whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk until smooth and well blended. - Add the flavor.
Mix in the herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk or pulse until everything is fully incorporated. - Taste and adjust.
Taste your ranch and tweak as needed—add more lemon for brightness, more dill for punch, or a bit more buttermilk for a thinner consistency.
💡 Tips for Making
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible — they truly make the difference between good ranch and great ranch.
- Substitute wisely: If you don’t have lemon juice, white vinegar works just as well.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in a sealed jar or squeeze bottle in the fridge for up to 7 days. Shake before using.
- Consistency tip: For a thinner dressing (perfect for salads), add a splash more buttermilk. For a thicker dip, use less.
🍟 Serving Suggestions
Homemade ranch isn’t just for salad! Try it with:
- Fresh veggies — carrots, celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers.
- Chicken tenders, fries, or wings.
- As a pizza dipping sauce (arguably the best use!).
- Burgers or wraps — spread it on for creamy flavor.
✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced.
- Made with real ingredients — no preservatives or artificial flavors.
- Comes together in just 5 minutes.
- Customizable — add more herbs, spice it up, or make it your own!
