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Homemade Ranch Dressing

This recipe creates a classic homemade ranch dressing from scratch. It involves mincing garlic into a paste, then combining it with a creamy base of mayonnaise and sour cream, fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and chives, and various spices. Buttermilk is added to achieve the desired consistency, and the dressing is chilled to allow flavors to meld.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course lunch/dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 8 people
Calories 904.8 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Chef's knife
  • 1 Medium Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Whisk or Spoon

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup real mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup Italian flat-leaf parsley leaves minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill minced
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh chives
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Dash hot sauce
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup buttermilk as needed for desired consistency

Instructions
 

  • Mince the garlic with a knife and then sprinkle on the salt and mash it into a paste with a fork.
  • In a bowl, combine the garlic paste, mayonnaise, sour cream, parsley, dill, chives, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, vinegar, paprika, cayenne and hot sauce. Add the buttermilk to desired consistency and mix to combine, tasting frequently and adjusting seasonings as needed. Chill for a couple of hours before serving, thinning with more buttermilk if needed.

Notes

For optimal flavor, ensure the garlic is truly mashed into a fine paste with the salt; this extracts its full aromatic potential without overwhelming the dressing. The chilling period is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld and deepen. Taste and adjust seasonings *after* chilling, as cold temperatures can mute flavors slightly. Use full-fat mayonnaise and sour cream for the richest texture and taste. Fresh herbs are non-negotiable for authentic ranch flavor; dried herbs will not yield the same vibrant result. Consider using a fine-mesh sieve to strain the dressing for an extra smooth consistency, especially if serving in a squeeze bottle.