The Best Homemade Ranch Dressing and Dry Mix Recipe
Introduction
This homemade ranch dressing is creamy, flavorful, and far superior to store-bought versions. Made with a simple dry ranch mix and fresh ingredients, it’s perfect for salads, dips, or drizzling over your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup black pepper
- 1½ cups parsley flakes
- ½ cup garlic salt
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- ¼ cup granulated garlic
- ¾ cup granulated onion
- 2 tbsp dill weed
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp dry ranch mix (from the prepared mix above)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the black pepper, parsley flakes, garlic salt, kosher salt, granulated garlic, granulated onion, and dill weed. Mix well to create the dry ranch mix.
- Step 2: Transfer the dry ranch mix to an airtight container for storage. It will keep fresh for months and can be used whenever you want to make ranch dressing.
- Step 3: To make the ranch dressing, combine mayonnaise, buttermilk, sour cream, and lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth.
- Step 4: Add 2 tablespoons of the dry ranch mix to the wet ingredients. Whisk thoroughly to blend all flavors evenly.
- Step 5: Refrigerate the dressing for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and develop a richer taste.
Tips & Variations
- For a thinner dressing, add more buttermilk a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Try swapping sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a slight kick and smoky flavor.
- Package the dry ranch mix in small jars as thoughtful homemade gifts, adding a tag with instructions for mixing the dressing.
Storage
Store the dry ranch mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. The prepared ranch dressing keeps well in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days. Stir well before serving and keep it chilled for the best flavor and texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the ranch dressing without buttermilk?
You can substitute regular milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar added to it, letting it sit for 5 minutes to create a buttermilk-like effect. This works well in a pinch.
Is this ranch dressing suitable for dipping as well as salad dressing?
Yes! This creamy ranch dressing is perfect for dipping vegetables, chicken wings, or chips, as well as drizzling over salads and bowls.
PrintThe Best Homemade Ranch Dressing and Dry Mix Recipe
This homemade ranch recipe is the best you’ll ever taste, featuring a flavorful dry ranch mix that can be prepared in advance and used to make a creamy, tangy dressing perfect for salads, dips, and more. With simple pantry ingredients and easy steps, you can create a versatile ranch dressing that rivals store-bought versions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 cups of ranch dressing 1x
- Category: Dressing
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Dry Ranch Mix
- ¼ cup black pepper
- 1½ cups parsley flakes
- ½ cup garlic salt
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- ¼ cup granulated garlic
- ¾ cup granulated onion
- 2 tbsp dill weed
Ranch Dressing
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp of the dry ranch mix
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Ranch Mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine ¼ cup black pepper, 1½ cups parsley flakes, ½ cup garlic salt, 2 tbsp kosher salt, ¼ cup granulated garlic, ¾ cup granulated onion, and 2 tbsp dill weed. Stir thoroughly to evenly blend all the dry ingredients. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container to store. This dry mix will remain fresh and flavorful for months and can be gifted in small jars with preparation instructions.
- Make the Ranch Dressing: In a separate mixing bowl, combine 2 cups mayonnaise, 2 cups buttermilk, 1½ cups sour cream, and 1 tsp lemon juice. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Add 2 tablespoons of the prepared dry ranch mix to the wet ingredients and whisk again until fully combined.
- Chill the Dressing: Cover the bowl with the dressing and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld and develop a richer, creamier texture for optimal taste before serving.
Notes
- The dry ranch mix can be stored in an airtight container for several months, making it convenient to have on hand whenever you want fresh ranch dressing.
- You can adjust the amounts of mayonnaise, buttermilk, and sour cream to change the dressing’s thickness to your liking.
- For a thinner dressing, add a little more buttermilk; for a thicker dip, increase the sour cream.
- This dry ranch mix also makes a wonderful homemade gift when packaged in small jars with instructions.
- Ensure to refrigerate the dressing before serving to enhance flavor melding and maintain freshness.
Keywords: homemade ranch dressing, dry ranch mix, ranch dressing recipe, creamy ranch, easy ranch dressing, ranch dip, ranch salad dressing
