If you love the classic flavor of ranch dressing but want something fresher, richer, and free from preservatives, this Homemade Ranch recipe will become your new kitchen staple. With just a few simple ingredients and a handful of dried herbs, you can make a restaurant-quality dressing that tastes far better than anything from a bottle.
Whether you’re using it as a salad dressing, dipping sauce, or marinade, homemade ranch adds a burst of creamy, tangy flavor to any dish. The best part? It takes only minutes to prepare.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Made with real, fresh ingredients
Ultra-creamy texture
Customizable thickness (thin for dressing, thick for dip)
No preservatives or hidden additives
Perfect for salads, wings, veggies, fries, burgers & more
🍽️ Ingredients
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1/8 tsp ground black pepper
1/4 tsp sea salt
3/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
3/4 tsp dried parsley
1/2 tsp chopped chives
1 tsp dried dill
1–3 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (to taste)
🥣 Instructions — Full Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base
In a large mixing bowl, add the sour cream, buttermilk, and mayonnaise.
Stir in 1½ tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Using a whisk, gradually add all herbs and spices:
pepper, sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, chives, and dill.
Whisk thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and well-combined.
Step 3: Adjust Thickness
Add more lemon juice (or buttermilk) to reach your preferred consistency:
Thicker for dips
Thinner for salads and drizzling
Step 4: Store Properly
Transfer to jars or squeeze bottles.
Refrigerate immediately.
Label with an expiration date 1 week from preparation.
Step 5: Enjoy
Use your freshly made ranch for salads, dipping veggies, wings, nuggets, pizza crusts, sandwiches, wraps, and more!
🌿 Tips for the Best Homemade Ranch
Use real buttermilk for authentic flavor
Fresh lemon juice keeps the dressing bright and tangy
Chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors blend
For extra creaminess, add 1–2 tbsp cream cheese
For spice, add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper
🍟 Ways to Use Homemade Ranch
Over salads
As a dip for fries, tenders, nuggets & wings
With veggie platters
On burgers & wraps
As a pizza dipping sauce
As a marinade for chicken
🧊 How to Store It
Store in the fridge in an airtight jar or squeeze bottle for up to 1 week.
Shake or stir before each use.
❤️ Final Thoughts
This Homemade Ranch Dressing is creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Once you try this fresh version, you’ll never want to return to store-bought ranch again. It’s versatile, customizable, and elevates any meal with bold, delicious flavor.