Dinner

Creamy Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe

ByHarry Bern February 4, 2026February 4, 2026

Introduction

Ranch dressing is a classic, creamy condiment that’s perfect for salads, dipping, or adding a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes. This homemade version is fresh, tangy, and packed with herbs for a deliciously satisfying taste.

A clear glass pitcher filled with white creamy dressing mixed with small green herb pieces, mostly chives and dill, spread evenly throughout the dressing. The top surface is smooth with a sprinkling of finely chopped green herbs. The pitcher has a handle on the right side and a spout on the left. It is placed on a wooden board with a blurred white marbled background and a light-colored bowl of colorful fresh salad in the back left. 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 of cayenne pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk until smooth.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, dill, chives, kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Transfer the dressing to a covered container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

For a thinner dressing, add more buttermilk until you reach your desired consistency.
Use dried herbs if fresh are not available, but reduce the quantity by half for best flavor.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Try substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangier and lighter version.

Storage

Store the ranch dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir well before each use. This dressing can be served chilled or brought to room temperature if preferred.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a thick, creamy white sauce with green herb pieces mixed inside, held on a silver spoon above a clear glass jar filled with the same sauce. The texture looks smooth and slightly chunky with visible tiny bits of herbs spread evenly throughout. The jar sits on a surface with a white marbled texture in the soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, ranch dressing actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld. Prepare it a few hours or even a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to use.

Is buttermilk necessary for ranch dressing?

Buttermilk gives ranch its signature tang and creamy texture. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk, letting it sit for 5 minutes before use.