20 Creamy Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipes to Try

Ranch dressing is a classic favorite that can elevate any dish. Whether you enjoy it as a dip, salad dressing, or a topping for various dishes, homemade ranch dressing offers a fresher and creamier taste than store-bought options. Here are 20 delicious and creamy ranch dressing recipes that will make your meals extra special.

1. Classic Creamy Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Buttermilk
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Fresh dill

Why You Should Try It:

This recipe is a perfect balance of creamy and tangy with a hint of garlic and fresh herbs. It’s the classic ranch dressing that everyone loves.

Recipe Method:

• Gather all your ingredients: mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, and fresh dill.
• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, measure and combine the mayonnaise and sour cream.
• Whisk the two ingredients together until you have a smooth, uniform base.
• Slowly pour in the buttermilk while continuing to whisk. Adjust the amount of buttermilk for a thinner or thicker consistency.
• Add the garlic powder and onion powder to the mixture.
• Finely chop the fresh dill and add it to the bowl.
• Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your personal taste.
• Whisk all the ingredients thoroughly until everything is well combined and evenly distributed.
• Taste the dressing and adjust any seasonings if necessary.
• For the best flavor, cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

2. Avocado Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Ripe avocado
• Greek yogurt
• Buttermilk
• Lime juice
• Fresh cilantro

Why You Should Try It:

For a creamy, slightly earthy twist, this avocado ranch dressing is a must-try. The avocado adds richness and depth while cilantro gives it a fresh flavor.

Recipe Method:

• Cut the ripe avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor.
• Add the Greek yogurt and buttermilk to the blender with the avocado.
• Squeeze in the fresh lime juice.
• Add a generous handful of fresh cilantro.
• Include a pinch of garlic powder and onion powder for that classic ranch flavor base.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Blend on high speed until the dressing is completely smooth and creamy.
• If the dressing is too thick, add a splash more buttermilk and blend again until you reach the desired consistency.
• Pour the dressing into a jar or bowl.
• Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Lighter Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Greek yogurt
• Skim milk
• Apple cider vinegar
• Garlic powder
• Dried dill

Why You Should Try It:

This lighter version of ranch dressing is made with Greek yogurt and skim milk, making it lower in fat while still creamy and flavorful.

Recipe Method:

• In a mixing bowl, add the Greek yogurt as your base.
• Slowly whisk in the skim milk until the yogurt thins out to a dressing-like consistency.
• Stir in the apple cider vinegar for a bit of tang.
• Add the garlic powder and dried dill to the bowl.
• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of onion powder and some chopped fresh chives if you have them.
• Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
• Whisk everything together until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the dressing is smooth.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning. Add more dill or garlic if desired.
• For the best results, let the dressing sit in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Stir once more before drizzling over your favorite salad.

4. Bacon Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Crumbled bacon
• Garlic powder
• Chopped green onions

Why You Should Try It:

If you love bacon, this recipe takes ranch dressing to the next level. The crumbled bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that enhances the creamy base.

Recipe Method:

• Cook several strips of bacon until crispy, either in a pan or in the oven.
• Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel to drain excess grease and cool down.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and sour cream. Whisk until smooth.
• Add garlic powder and a bit of onion powder to the creamy base.
• Crumble the cooled bacon into small pieces.
• Finely chop the green onions.
• Add the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions to the dressing.
• Stir everything together until the bacon and onions are evenly distributed.
• Season with a little black pepper. Be careful with salt, as the bacon is already salty.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the smoky bacon flavor infuse the dressing.

5. Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Buttermilk
• Mayonnaise
• Fresh parsley
• Garlic powder
• Dried mustard

Why You Should Try It:

The tanginess of buttermilk is the star of this dressing, giving it that authentic ranch flavor you crave. It’s simple, creamy, and perfect for dipping.

Recipe Method:

• Gather your ingredients: buttermilk, mayonnaise, fresh parsley, garlic powder, and dried mustard.
• Finely chop the fresh parsley.
• In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and buttermilk until they are well combined.
• Add the garlic powder and a pinch of dried mustard.
• Stir in the fresh parsley.
• Add a teaspoon of onion powder for a more complex flavor.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Whisk vigorously until the dressing is smooth and all the herbs are incorporated.
• For a classic dipping consistency, use slightly less buttermilk. For a salad dressing, use a bit more.
• Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

6. Chipotle Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Chipotle peppers in adobo
• Lime juice
• Garlic powder

Why You Should Try It:

This spicy variation of ranch brings the smoky heat of chipotle peppers. It’s perfect for adding a zesty kick to your salads or as a dipping sauce for grilled foods.

Recipe Method:

• Take one or two chipotle peppers from the can of adobo sauce. For less heat, use more sauce and fewer peppers.
• Finely mince the chipotle peppers.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and sour cream and whisk until smooth.
• Add the minced chipotle peppers and a teaspoon of the adobo sauce to the bowl.
• Squeeze in the fresh lime juice.
• Add the garlic powder and a pinch of onion powder.
• Whisk everything together until the chipotle is evenly mixed throughout the dressing.
• Taste for spiciness and flavor. Add more adobo sauce or lime juice if needed.
• Season with a small amount of salt and pepper.
• Let the dressing sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the smoky and spicy flavors meld.

7. Dairy-Free Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Cashews
• Lemon juice
• Garlic powder
• Dried dill
• Water

Why You Should Try It:

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, this cashew-based dressing is creamy and rich without any dairy. It’s perfect for vegan or lactose-intolerant individuals.

Recipe Method:

• Soak the raw cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes, or in cold water for 4 hours.
• Drain the cashews and rinse them well.
• Place the soaked cashews in a high-speed blender.
• Add the lemon juice, garlic powder, and dried dill.
• Also add onion powder and a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar for extra tang.
• Pour in a half cup of fresh water.
• Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
• Scrape down the sides of the blender and blend again if needed.
• Add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired dressing consistency.
• Season with salt and pepper, transfer to a jar, and chill before serving.

8. Herbed Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, dill)
• Lemon juice
• Garlic powder

Why You Should Try It:

Fresh herbs elevate the traditional ranch dressing in this version, adding a vibrant and aromatic flavor. It’s perfect for a refreshing salad topping.

Recipe Method:

• Finely chop a mix of fresh parsley, chives, and dill. You should have about 2-3 tablespoons in total.
• In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and sour cream to create a smooth base.
• Add a splash of buttermilk or milk to thin the dressing slightly, if desired.
• Stir in the fresh lemon juice and garlic powder.
• Add the chopped fresh herbs to the bowl.
• Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
• Stir well to ensure the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the dressing.
• Taste and adjust the amount of lemon juice or herbs to your preference.
• For the most vibrant flavor, let the dressing rest in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.
• Serve as a dip for fresh vegetables or as a dressing for a crisp green salad.

9. Spicy Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Sriracha sauce
• Fresh lime juice
• Garlic powder

Why You Should Try It:

If you love a little heat, this spicy ranch dressing made with sriracha adds a fiery kick. It’s perfect for dipping your favorite fried foods or drizzling on tacos.

Recipe Method:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and sour cream.
• Whisk the base ingredients until smooth.
• Add the sriracha sauce. Start with one tablespoon and add more later if you want more heat.
• Squeeze in the fresh lime juice.
• Add the garlic powder and a pinch of onion powder.
• Whisk all the ingredients together until the sriracha is fully incorporated, turning the dressing a pale orange color.
• Taste the dressing for spiciness. Add more sriracha if you prefer it hotter.
• Season with a small amount of salt and pepper.
• For best results, allow the dressing to chill for 20-30 minutes before using.
• Drizzle on pizza, wings, or use as a spicy dip.

10. Cucumber Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Greek yogurt
• Mayonnaise
• Fresh cucumber
• Garlic powder
• Dill

Why You Should Try It:

Cucumber adds a refreshing crunch and a cooling flavor to this ranch dressing. It’s the perfect accompaniment for summer salads or grilled meats.

Recipe Method:

• Peel a small cucumber.
• Grate the cucumber using a box grater.
• Place the grated cucumber in a fine-mesh sieve or on a clean kitchen towel and press to remove excess water.
• In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise.
• Whisk the base until smooth and creamy.
• Add the drained, grated cucumber to the bowl.
• Stir in the garlic powder and a generous amount of fresh or dried dill.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Mix well and chill for at least 30 minutes to let the cucumber flavor infuse the dressing.

11. Vegan Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Almond milk
• Vegan mayonnaise
• Lemon juice
• Garlic powder
• Dried dill

Why You Should Try It:

This vegan ranch dressing is made with plant-based ingredients but is still rich and creamy. It’s a great choice for anyone following a plant-based diet.

Recipe Method:

• In a mixing bowl, add the vegan mayonnaise.
• Slowly whisk in the unsweetened almond milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Add the fresh lemon juice for tanginess.
• Stir in the garlic powder and onion powder.
• Add the dried dill and some finely chopped fresh parsley or chives if available.
• Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
• Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
• Taste and adjust any of the seasonings as needed.
• For the best flavor, cover and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
• Serve with your favorite vegan dishes, salads, or as a dip.

12. Blue Cheese Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Crumbled blue cheese
• Buttermilk
• Garlic powder

Why You Should Try It:

For those who love blue cheese, this dressing combines the creamy tang of ranch with the bold flavor of blue cheese. It’s perfect for pairing with wings or fresh vegetables.

Recipe Method:

• In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk until smooth.
• Add the garlic powder and a pinch of onion powder.
• Season with black pepper. Go easy on the salt, as blue cheese is salty.
• Gently crumble the blue cheese into the bowl.
• If you prefer a smoother dressing, mash about half the blue cheese into the base with a fork.
• If you like it chunky, simply stir the crumbles in gently.
• Add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
• Stir everything together until just combined.
• Taste and adjust seasoning or add more blue cheese if desired.
• Chill for at least one hour to allow the bold flavors to meld together.

13. Sun-dried Tomato Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Mayonnaise
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Garlic powder
• Basil
• Olive oil

Why You Should Try It:

Sun-dried tomatoes add a rich, tangy flavor to this ranch dressing. It’s an excellent choice for a Mediterranean twist on your classic ranch dip.

Recipe Method:

• If using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drain them and finely chop. If using dry-packed, rehydrate them in warm water first.
• In a blender or food processor, combine the mayonnaise and a splash of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
• Add the garlic powder and a handful of fresh basil leaves.
• Drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil (use the oil from the jar if you have it).
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Blend until the dressing is mostly smooth but still has some texture from the tomatoes.
• For a thinner consistency, add a splash of milk or water and blend again.
• Pour into a jar.
• Chill for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors deepen.

14. Cilantro Lime Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime juice
• Jalapeño (optional)

Why You Should Try It:

This creamy ranch dressing has a tangy twist with fresh lime and cilantro. It’s perfect for pairing with grilled chicken, tacos, or roasted vegetables.

Recipe Method:

• Place the mayonnaise and sour cream in a blender.
• Add a large handful of fresh cilantro (stems and all).
• Squeeze in the juice of one whole lime.
• Add garlic powder and onion powder.
• For a spicy kick, add a few slices of fresh jalapeño, seeds removed for less heat.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Blend on high until the dressing is smooth and vibrant green.
• Taste and adjust the lime juice or cilantro to your liking.
• If too thick, add a splash of buttermilk or water and blend briefly.
• Transfer to a jar and refrigerate for about 20 minutes before enjoying.

15. Keto Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Apple cider vinegar
• Garlic powder
• Fresh dill

Why You Should Try It:

This keto-friendly ranch dressing keeps things low-carb while still being rich and creamy. It’s great for those following a keto diet or anyone watching their carb intake.

Recipe Method:

• Ensure your mayonnaise and sour cream are full-fat and have no added sugars.
• In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise and sour cream.
• Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth.
• Stir in the apple cider vinegar for tang.
• Add the garlic powder and onion powder.
• Finely chop the fresh dill and add it to the bowl.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Whisk all the ingredients together thoroughly.
• For a thinner dressing, add a tablespoon of water or unsweetened almond milk and whisk again.
• Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving with keto-friendly foods.

16. Ranch Yogurt Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Greek yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Garlic powder
• Fresh parsley
• Chives

Why You Should Try It:

For a healthier alternative, this ranch yogurt dressing is creamy but lighter than traditional mayonnaise-based ranch. The tang from Greek yogurt pairs beautifully with fresh herbs.

Recipe Method:

• Use plain, full-fat or low-fat Greek yogurt as the base. Add it to a bowl.
• Squeeze in fresh lemon juice to taste.
• Add the garlic powder and a pinch of onion powder.
• Finely chop the fresh parsley and chives.
• Add the fresh herbs to the yogurt.
• Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
• Whisk everything together until smooth.
• If the dressing is too thick, stir in a tablespoon or two of water or milk to thin it out.
• Taste and adjust the seasonings. Add more lemon juice for more tang or more herbs for a fresher flavor.
• Let it sit in the refrigerator for 20 minutes before serving.

17. Mayo-Free Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Greek yogurt
• Buttermilk
• Fresh herbs (dill, parsley)
• Lemon juice
• Garlic powder

Why You Should Try It:

This mayo-free version is a healthy alternative for those looking to avoid mayonnaise but still enjoy the creaminess of ranch dressing.

Recipe Method:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and buttermilk.
• Whisk them together until you have a smooth, pourable consistency.
• Add the fresh lemon juice and garlic powder.
• Stir in a pinch of onion powder.
• Finely chop your fresh herbs, like dill and parsley, and add them to the bowl.
• Season the dressing with salt and pepper.
• Whisk vigorously to combine all the ingredients.
• Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
• For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Stir again before serving over salads or as a dip.

18. Cream Cheese Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Cream cheese
• Sour cream
• Buttermilk
• Garlic powder
• Fresh chives

Why You Should Try It:

Cream cheese adds an extra level of richness to this ranch dressing. It’s perfect for spreading on sandwiches or using as a dip for fresh veggies.

Recipe Method:

• Place the block of cream cheese in a mixing bowl and let it soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Use a hand mixer or a sturdy whisk to beat the cream cheese until it is smooth and free of lumps.
• Add the sour cream and beat again until combined.
• Slowly stream in the buttermilk while mixing, until you reach a thick but dippable consistency.
• Add the garlic powder and onion powder.
• Finely chop the fresh chives and stir them into the mixture.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Mix one last time to ensure everything is incorporated.
• This dressing will be very thick, making it an excellent dip or spread.
• Chill for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to set.

19. Roasted Garlic Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Roasted garlic
• Buttermilk
• Fresh parsley

Why You Should Try It:

Roasting garlic brings out its natural sweetness, which pairs perfectly with the tangy ranch base. This version is rich and flavorful, ideal for roasted vegetables or as a dip.

Recipe Method:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Cut the top off a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil.
• Roast for 30-40 minutes, until the cloves are soft and golden. Let it cool.
• Squeeze the soft, roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into a mixing bowl.
• Mash the roasted garlic with a fork until it forms a paste.
• Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk to the bowl with the garlic paste.
• Whisk everything together until the garlic is fully incorporated and the dressing is smooth.
• Finely chop some fresh parsley and stir it in.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Chill for at least an hour to allow the sweet, roasted garlic flavor to infuse the entire dressing.

20. Sour Cream Ranch Dressing

Key Ingredients:

• Sour cream
• Buttermilk
• Garlic powder
• Dried dill
• Fresh parsley

Why You Should Try It:

This simple yet creamy ranch dressing is made with sour cream, offering a smooth, tangy base. It’s perfect for those who prefer a thicker texture in their dressing.

Recipe Method:

• In a bowl, combine the sour cream and buttermilk.
• Whisk until you achieve a consistency you like, adding more buttermilk for a thinner dressing.
• Add the garlic powder and onion powder.
• Stir in the dried dill.
• Finely chop the fresh parsley and add it to the mixture.
• Season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
• Whisk all the ingredients together until the herbs and spices are evenly distributed.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• For the best flavor, let the dressing rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
• Serve as a creamy dip for chips, vegetables, or as a dressing for a wedge salad.

Conclusion

Homemade ranch dressing can be customized to suit any taste, from classic to spicy or even vegan. These 20 creamy ranch dressing recipes provide a wide range of flavors, perfect for dipping, drizzling, or adding extra flavor to your meals. Whether you’re making a healthier version or indulging in a rich, bacon-infused dressing, there’s a recipe for every occasion. Try these recipes and discover your new favorite homemade ranch dressing today!