Easy From-Scratch Homemade Ranch Dressing
Homemade ranch dressing is a family-friendly, easy to make condiment from simple pantry staples. It features the same delicious ranch flavor of store-bought favorites without chemical ingredients and it’s better for the pocketbook. So whisk up a homemade batch of this All-American classic and indulge all you’d like!
I’ve been making homemade ranch dressing for so long now that I don’t even remember why I started in the first place. Perhaps in a moment of desperation when I realized I didn’t have the packaged bottle on hand, but maybe I could make it myself in a pinch.
That and homemade taco seasoning were the first recipes I pinned on Pinterest about 2011. I’ve used both ever since then and that’s why I want to encourage and inspire others to do the same.
Let’s face it, ranch dressing makes everything taste so good! Especially veggies, whether cooked or fresh.
Mama’s, perhaps you should take this recipe to the local lunch ladies and request a side of homemade ranch dressing for the required vegetables on the lunch trays. Without butter, salt or ranch, there’s little wonder why kiddos don’t eat their veggies at school.
At home we all know ranch dressing boosts the flavor of salads or sautéed potatoes. Might I also suggest these homemade cheesy sourdough pizza rolls? Dunked in homemade ranch, they’re truly irresistible!
Over the years I’ve modified the original recipe to my liking, which is another reason why I love this homemade version. It’s super customizable for taste preferences or food sensitivities and allergies.
I’ve had to make mine without the powdered buttermilk over the years. That’s okay because I realized it’s the herbs and seasonings that create the ranch flavor, not necessarily the added dairy.
That’s exactly why homemade is so great! No one in the family has to miss out on the classic ranch flavor. Mix it into coconut yogurt or simply sprinkle the mix itself minus the buttermilk onto salads for dairy-free options. Delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy healthy swap – Eliminate the need for store-bought ranch dip or dressing with this homemade version. It tastes the same and it’s quick to make with simple seasonings and herbs already on your spice rack. Swap the convenience for a few extra minutes of homemade delicious and a lifetime of better health.
Sugar free with healthy ingredients – This homemade ranch dressing eliminates sneaky sugar sources and is made with all wholesome, pronounceable ingredients that nourish the body. No junk needed! Even better for the gardener, all the seasonings and herbs can be grown yourself and ground for this recipe. That would make a perfect homemade gift too!
Delicious recognizable ranch flavor – This homemade recipe boasts the same classic ranch flavor as familiar store-bought varieties. So go ahead and serve liberally to kids or skeptical spouses and friends. They’ll request it over and over again.
Helpful Hints
- Keep in mind the dried mix doesn’t contain any flow agents or moisture blockers. Store in an airtight container and only mix what you’ll use within a couple of weeks. Add a piece of clean muslin or paper towel to help absorb moisture.
- To save time, mix together several servings at once. Again, keep in mind how fast you’ll go through it since it will clump together without chemical ingredients.
- To make the powdered mix dairy-free, simply eliminate the dried buttermilk. Mix into non-dairy yogurts for dip or sprinkle the mix straight into mashed potatoes or on salads.
- Customize this recipe to your liking. Add more or less of certain ingredients and make separate batches for family members based on taste preferences or food allergies.
How to Make Homemade Ranch Dressing
What You’ll Need
Dried Buttermilk – I use the Azure Standard brand, but you can find it in the baking aisle or by the powdered milk in most grocery stores.
Sour Cream – Yogurt can also be used in the dip and mayonnaise can be used in the dressing.
Buttermilk – If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, add 1 1/2 teaspoons distilled white vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup milk. Then let sit for five minutes before using.
The full list of ingredients are in the recipe card below.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mix together all dry ingredients in a small bowl. Stir well.
To make a dip, mix three tablespoons of ranch mix into one cup of sour cream or plain yogurt.
For ranch dressing, mix three tablespoons ranch mix with one cup of sour cream, mayonnaise or yogurt and one cup of buttermilk. Mix well.
Store the mix in an airtight container and use within two weeks to prevent clumping.
Add a piece of paper toweling to aid with moisture absorption.
FAQ’s
What is the difference between ranch dip and ranch dressing?
The viscosity of each is the difference. The same powdered mix is used, but dip is thicker for chips and vegetables. Ranch dressing is runnier in texture and typically used for salads.
Can fresh herbs and seasonings be used in this recipe?
Yes, fresh herbs and seasonings can be used in place of dried. Remember the substitute ratio is one teaspoon dried for one tablespoon fresh.
What is a substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have any buttermilk on hand, stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons distilled white vinegar or lemon juice into a 1/2 cup of milk. Let sit for five minutes and then proceed with the recipe.
How long will ranch dip or dressing last in the fridge?
It’s recommended to use either one within a week of being made. Don’t let them sit at room temperature longer than two hours. Toss if they do.
More Recipes From Becky’s Kitchen
The Best From-Scratch Cheesy Sourdough Pizza Rolls
The Best Christmas Sourdough Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls
Simple Gluten-Free Banana Bread with Pumpkin Seed Crumble
Homemade Apple Cider Vinegar | Healthy, Simple and Frugal
How to Make Homemade Shrub | A Dye-Free Beverage Flavoring
If you make this recipe and love it, come back and give it a 5-star review! Tag me with your photos on Instagram @beckybuttlesamericana
Cheers to delicious dipping! –Becky
Easy From-Scratch Homemade Ranch Dressing
Homemade ranch dressing is a family-friendly, easy to make condiment from simple pantry staples. It features the same delicious ranch flavor of store-bought favorites without chemical ingredients and it's better for the pocketbook. So whisk up a homemade batch of this All-American classic and indulge all you'd like!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup dried buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dill
- 1 teaspoon chives
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Mix together all dry ingredients in a small bowl. Stir well.
- To make a dip, mix three tablespoons of ranch mix into one cup of sour cream or plain yogurt.
- For ranch dressing, mix three tablespoons ranch mix with one cup of sour cream, mayonnaise or yogurt and one cup of buttermilk. Mix well.
- Store the dry powdered mix in an airtight container and use within two weeks to prevent clumping. Add a piece of paper toweling to aid with moisture absorption.
Notes
- Keep in mind the dried mix doesn't contain any flow agents or moisture blockers. Store in an airtight container and only mix what you'll use within a couple of weeks. Add a piece of clean muslin or paper towel to help absorb moisture.
- To save time, mix together several servings at once. Again, keep in mind how fast you'll go through it since it will clump together without chemical ingredients.
- To make the powdered mix dairy-free, simply eliminate the dried buttermilk. Mix into non-dairy yogurts for dip or sprinkle the mix straight into mashed potatoes or on salads.
- Customize this recipe to your liking. Add more or less of certain ingredients and make separate batches for family members based on taste preferences or food allergies.
I’m a wife and homemaker inspiring old-fashioned skills for a homemade, self-sufficient lifestyle, always with a warm beverage in hand. Homemade Recipes. Gardening. Preserving. Healthy Living.
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