Homemade Ranch Dressing (Creamy, Fresh, and Better Than Store-Bought)

If you’ve never made ranch dressing from scratch, this is your sign. This homemade ranch is creamy, tangy, and full of classic flavor — and it comes together in just minutes with ingredients you likely already have at home.

This version is made specifically as a ranch dressing, meaning it’s thin enough to drizzle, pour, and coat salads beautifully. It’s fresh, balanced, and nothing like the bottled stuff.

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Why This Recipe Works

Homemade ranch is all about balance, and this one gets it right.

Buttermilk adds tang and keeps the dressing pourable
Mayonnaise creates a smooth, creamy base
Simple dried herbs and spices build classic ranch flavor
No preservatives, fillers, or mystery ingredients

It’s quick, dependable, and easy to customize once you know the base.

Ingredient Notes

Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy foundation
Buttermilk: Thins the ranch into a true dressing consistency, don’t use homemade buttermilk, it’s too watery
Dill: Brings that unmistakable ranch flavor (use less if fresh)
Garlic & onion powder: Add savory depth
Parsley & paprika: Round out the flavor and color

These simple ingredients work together to create a ranch that tastes fresh and familiar.

Dressing vs. Dip (Important Note)

This recipe is written as a ranch dressing, so it will be thinner and pourable — perfect for salads, drizzling over pizza, or spooning over bowls.

👉 If you want a thicker ranch dip instead:
Simply replace the buttermilk with sour cream. You’ll get a thicker, scoopable ranch that’s great for veggies, wings, or chips.

Same flavors, just a different texture.

How to Make Homemade Ranch Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and buttermilk until smooth.
Add dill, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, parsley, and paprika.
Stir until fully combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.

That’s it — no blender, no waiting, no hassle.

FAQs

How long does homemade ranch last?
Stored in an airtight container, it will keep for up to 5–7 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, just reduce the amount slightly — fresh herbs are more potent.

Does it thicken in the fridge?
It will thicken slightly as it chills but will still stay pourable as a dressing.

Ways to Use Homemade Ranch

Toss with salads
Drizzle over pizza or flatbreads
Spoon over chicken (like this harissa honey chicken recipe) or roasted veggies
Use as a base for bowls and wraps

It’s one of those sauces you’ll find yourself reaching for all week.

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