Tangy Homemade Ranch Dressing

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Cost estimate: $3–5 | Serves: 6–8

Okay, mamas, let’s be real. Store-bought ranch? It’s fine. But homemade ranch? It’s a whole different ballgame. My little ones are OBSESSED with dipping everything in ranch, and honestly, I am too! I used to grab the bottles at the grocery store, but once I discovered how easy and DELICIOUS it is to whip up a batch at home, there was no turning back. Plus, you know exactly what’s going into it! No weird preservatives or mystery ingredients here. This recipe is creamy, tangy, and savory – everything ranch should be. Get ready to dunk all the veggies!

Why You’ll Love These

This homemade ranch is a total game-changer. Seriously, once you try it, you might never buy the bottled stuff again! Here’s why:

• Better than store-bought Seriously! It’s so much more flavorful and fresh.
• Quick & Easy Only takes about 10 minutes to whip together. Hello, weeknight win!
• Customizable You can adjust the consistency and flavor to your liking. More tang? More herbs? You’re in control!
• Simple Ingredients No weird stuff here! Just good ol’ pantry staples.
• Versatile Dip, drizzle, spread…the possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

• ½ cup sour cream or whole milk Greek yogurt
• ¼ to ½ cup mayonnaise (I love using avocado oil mayo!)
• 2 to 4 tablespoons buttermilk or any milk
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ to ½ teaspoon sea salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives, optional
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, optional

How to Make

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, ¼ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons milk, dried dill, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper.
   

   Note: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the amount of mayo and milk to get the consistency you like!

   
   
2. Season to taste, adding more salt and pepper as desired.
   

   Tip: Taste as you go! This is your chance to make it PERFECTLY suited to your palate.

   
   
3. Fold in the chopped fresh chives and dill, if using.
   

   Pro tip: Fresh herbs really elevate the flavor, but dried herbs work in a pinch too!

   
   
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
   

   Important: Give the dressing a good stir before serving, as it might separate slightly while chilling.

   
   

Tips & Tricks

Want to take your homemade ranch game to the next level? Here are some of my favorite tips and tricks:

• Flavor Boosters: Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick!
• Time-Saver: If you’re short on time, use a store-bought ranch seasoning packet as a base and then customize it with fresh ingredients.
• Storage: Store your homemade ranch in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Prep Hack: Chop your fresh herbs in advance to make the process even faster.

Dietary Variations

Need to adjust this recipe to fit your dietary needs? No problem!

• Vegan: For a vegan ranch, check out my vegan ranch dressing recipe!
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free sour cream and milk alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Absolutely! Whole milk Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe. It will give the ranch a slightly tangier flavor and a thicker consistency.

How can I make the ranch thinner?

If you prefer a thinner ranch dressing, simply add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Buttermilk is also great for thinning!

Summary & Final Thoughts

There you have it – the easiest, most delicious homemade ranch dressing recipe ever! Serve it with your favorite veggies, air fryer French fries, or buffalo cauliflower wings for dipping. Drizzle it over a fresh green salad or even taco salad! It’s also amazing on pizza. My kids are obsessed with this recipe and yours will be too. Give this recipe a try tonight, and pin it for later. You’ll thank me later when you’re craving that creamy, tangy goodness!

You May Also Like

If you love easy dips and dressings, you’ve got to try my Easy Dill Pickle Dip! It’s a tangy, creamy, party favorite that’s ready in minutes.

And for another quick weeknight win, my Zesty One-Pot Taco Soup is a family favorite. It’s hearty, flavorful, and cleanup is a breeze!