Thousand Island Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Thousand Island Dressing is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet condiment that elevates salads, sandwiches, and burgers with its bold flavor and smooth texture. Made with a base of mayonnaise and ketchup, it includes relish and a touch of seasoning to deliver a balanced, crave-worthy taste. It’s incredibly easy to make at home and perfect for those who love a classic American dressing with a twist.

ingredients

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

mayonnaiseketchuprelish (sweet or dill)white vinegar or lemon juicefinely chopped oniongarlic powderpaprikasaltblack pepper

directions

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise and ketchup until well blended.

Add the relish, vinegar or lemon juice, chopped onion, garlic powder, and paprika.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Stir everything together until smooth and evenly combined.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of dressing.Preparation time: 10 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add a chopped hard-boiled egg for a traditional touch.

Use hot sauce or finely chopped pickled jalapeños for a spicy version.

Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayo for a lighter option.

Include Worcestershire sauce for added umami depth.

Try finely chopped olives or bell peppers for texture and color.

storage/reheating

Store Thousand Island Dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.Do not freeze as the emulsion may separate.

FAQs

Is Thousand Island Dressing the same as Russian dressing?

They are similar, but Russian dressing typically has a sharper flavor and often includes horseradish or chili sauce.

Can I use this as a burger sauce?

Absolutely—it’s a popular choice for classic cheeseburgers and “secret sauces.”

Is it gluten-free?

Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check labels on ketchup and relish to be sure.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, use vegan mayonnaise and check that all condiments are plant-based.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, finely mince it for best results, but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dressing.

Can I make it without relish?

You can substitute with finely chopped pickles or omit it for a smoother consistency.

Conclusion

Thousand Island Dressing is a versatile and flavorful addition to your kitchen that’s easy to make and enjoy. Whether you’re drizzling it over a crisp salad, layering it in a sandwich, or spooning it onto a burger, this dressing delivers nostalgic, satisfying taste every time.

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