Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Best Homemade Ranch Salad Dressing is creamy, tangy, and bursting with fresh herb flavor—far superior to store-bought versions. Made with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for salads, dipping veggies, or drizzling over grilled meats. Quick to whip up and endlessly versatile, this ranch dressing is a must-have in your kitchen.

ingredients

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

mayonnaisesour cream or Greek yogurmbuttermilkgarlic powderonion powderdried dilldried parsleydried chivessaltblack pepperlemon juice or white vinegar (optional, for tang)fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)

directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk until smooth.

Add garlic powder, onion powder, dill, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper.

Whisk until well combined.

Taste and adjust seasoning, adding lemon juice or vinegar for extra tang if desired.

For a smoother texture, blend the dressing in a food processor.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Stir before serving and garnish with fresh herbs if using.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 1½ cups of dressing.Preparation time: 5 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-rich version.

Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Stir in grated parmesan or blue cheese for a bold twist.

Use fresh herbs in place of dried for brighter flavor.

Substitute dairy-free versions of mayo, sour cream, and milk for a vegan option.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.Do not freeze, as the texture will separate and become watery.Stir well before each use if it has settled.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, but the flavor won’t be as tangy. Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk.

How thick is this dressing?

It’s creamy but pourable—add more buttermilk for a thinner consistency.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Check labels to confirm.

Can I use only mayo or sour cream?

You can, but a combo of both gives the best texture and taste.

What herbs are best?

Dill, parsley, and chives are traditional, but you can also use basil or tarragon.

Can I use fresh garlic?

Yes, finely minced or grated garlic adds a strong, fresh bite.

Does it taste like restaurant ranch?

Yes, it’s creamy, herby, and full of flavor—many say it’s even better.

How do I make it vegan?

Use vegan mayo, dairy-free yogurt, and plant-based milk with vinegar.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

Mix 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of milk and let sit for 5 minutes.

Can I use this as a dip?

Absolutely—it’s perfect for veggies, wings, fries, and more.

Conclusion

The Best Homemade Ranch Salad Dressing is fresh, creamy, and irresistibly delicious. With simple pantry staples and a few minutes of prep, you can enjoy this versatile classic on everything from salads to snacks. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to the bottled kind—this ranch is truly a game changer.