Ranch Dressing

Ranch Dressing is a classic, but homemade ranch dressing is an absolute standout. My version is lightened up with Greek yogurt, but it’s still fabulously creamy, tangy, and herbaceous. Use it on all the things!

What is there to say about ranch dressing that hasn’t been said before? It’s a well-loved classic for a reason—it’s just so flippin’ good and of all the salad dressings out there, ranch is definitely the most versatile. You can use it as a dip for veggies, chicken wings, and even pizza crust. It’s delicious on salads, of course, but I’d say most of us probably use it more for other foods!

While it’s true that everyone loves ranch and it’s objectively the best dressing ever, let’s be honest: store-bought ranch dressing can be a bit lackluster. Even when I make it with a Ranch Seasoning packet it’s just not as good as it could be. That’s why making your own homemade ranch dressing is such a game-changer. Not only is it fresher and more flavorful than the bottled stuff, but you also have complete control over the ingredients. My homemade ranch dressing recipe uses Greek yogurt and a smaller amount of mayo, so it’s lighter and healthier too!

Ingredients for Ranch Dressing

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need for this recipe. For the full measurements, scroll down to the recipe card.

• Plain Low-Fat Greek Yogurt – This makes homemade ranch dressing thick and creamy—and it sneaks in some protein too.
• Buttermilk – Here’s how to make buttermilk if you’d rather not buy a bottle.
• Mayonnaise – Rather than replacing all the mayo with yogurt, I like adding a small amount of mayo for richness.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – For that signature ranch tanginess!
• Herbs – Chopped fresh dill and parsley.
• Onion Powder and Garlic – These add a savory balance to the herbs and tanginess.
• Kosher Salt and Ground Pepper – Always essential!

How to Make Ranch Dressing

Making your own ranch dressing at home is as simple as can be! Here’s how it’s done.

1. Combine. Blend all of the ingredients until smooth.
2. Finish. Season to taste.
3. Serve. Use it!

Tips for Making Ranch Dressing

These simple tips will help you make the perfect homemade ranch dressing customized to your tastes and needs!

• Make it thinner. Using this dressing on a salad? Then you’ll want it pourable and thin enough that it’s easy to distribute throughout the salad. You can add a tablespoon of milk to thin it out.
• Make it thicker. Add an extra tablespoon of yogurt or mayo if you want a thicker dressing that’s suitable for using as a dip.
• Experiment with flavors. You can also try incorporating different herbs like chives, tarragon, or cilantro; make it spicy by adding sriracha, or swap the apple cider vinegar for lemon juice for a more citrusy flavor. Don’t be afraid to make it your own! (Try this Easy Avocado Ranch Dressing too.)

How to Store Homemade Ranch Dressing

Once you’ve blended the ranch dressing, transfer it to an airtight container or a glass jar and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Stir it well before using to redistribute all the ingredients. 

Ways to Use Ranch Dressing

I can probably think of a hundred different ways to use ranch, but here’s a few to get you started!

• Salads – Try it with a Cobb Salad or Big Mac Salad. Or just toss it with a bag of mixed greens and sliced grilled chicken for an easy lunch.
• Veggie dip – A classic party app!
• Topping – Use it on Air Fryer Baked Potatoes instead of sour cream, drizzle it over BBQ chicken nachos or pizza, or even add some to Instant Pot Chili for a creamy and tangy finishing touch.
• Dipping sauce – Perfect for Buffalo Chicken Wraps and Baked Buffalo Wings!
• Pizza – If you’re on Team Pizza-With-Ranch, this recipe is SO much better than the bottles.
• Sandwich spread – If you make this recipe on the thicker side, you can spread it onto Smash Burgers and other sandwiches.
• Pasta salad – Make an easy pasta salad by tossing cooked pasta, veggies, and crumbled bacon with ranch.

More Salad Dressing Recipes

• Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
• The Best Catalina Dressing
• Homemade Caesar Dressing
• Cilantro Lime Dressing
• Mango Salad with Limoncello Dressing
• Homemade Thousand Island Dressing
• Easy Greek Salad Dressing Recipe
• Miso Ginger Dressing

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