Dinner

Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe

ByMaya Arden September 18, 2026September 18, 2026

Introduction

This classic ranch dressing is creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. It’s perfect for salads, dipping veggies, or drizzling on your favorite dishes. Making it at home ensures a fresh and customizable taste every time.

A clear glass pitcher filled with thick white creamy sauce speckled with small pieces of green herbs, with more fresh green herbs sprinkled lightly on top. The pitcher has a spout on the left side and a clear handle on the right, sitting on a wooden board. Behind the pitcher to the left is a white bowl with a colorful salad of green beans, red cherry tomatoes, orange carrots, and purple onion slices. The whole scene is set on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream

3/4 cup buttermilk
2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill

2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Pinch cayenne pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, dill, chives, kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 3: Transfer the dressing to a covered container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the brightest flavor; dried herbs can be substituted but use about one-third of the amount.

Adjust the thickness by adding more buttermilk for a thinner dressing or more mayonnaise for a thicker dip.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra tanginess.

Storage

Store the ranch dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir well before each use. If the dressing thickens too much after refrigeration, thin it out with a splash of buttermilk or water.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a jar filled with thick creamy white sauce that has small green herb pieces mixed in. A silver spoon is scooping up the sauce, highlighting its smooth and slightly chunky texture with visible green flecks. The jar is clear, revealing the sauce inside, and it sits on a white marbled surface that adds a clean and bright background to the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make ranch dressing without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s tanginess. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes before using.

How long does homemade ranch dressing last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, homemade ranch dressing lasts up to one week. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before using.