Homemade Ranch Dressing Mix Recipe + Salad Dressing

Homemade ranch dressing mix has better ingredients and can be used for more than just salad dressing. This seasoning is easy and versatile!

Homemade ranch dressing mix is so easy to make that I can hardly even call it a recipe. It’s better for you, and you can control the ingredients. If you’re still buying those store-bought packets, here’s your sign to immediately stop and make your own! This homemade ranch dressing mix is more of a seasoning and can be used for more than just salads. 

I’ll be the first to admit that using a store-bought package of ranch seasoning is quick and easy. But what if I told you that this recipe only takes about 10 minutes and will last for months? Have you ever examined the ingredients on one of those dry ranch dressing packets? They could be better. We can do better.

I’m obsessed with scallions, and my sister recently introduced me to freeze-dried scallions. These differ from dried scallions that taste like cardboard at most grocery and spice stores. Freeze-dried scallions are harder to find but worth the effort. They taste exactly like scallions. You can use dried chives if you can’t find freeze-dried scallions or don’t want to.

My homemade ranch dressing mix does not have buttermilk powder, and that’s intentional. I wanted to create a recipe using ingredients that most of us already have. Instead, I use Greek yogurt when I use the dry seasoning to make ranch dressing or dip. Greek yogurt adds the tang that usually comes from buttermilk, and it’s much better for you. Greek yogurt is full of protein!

Homemade Ranch Dressing Mix

Why We Love It

• Healthier. Unlike the store-bought stuff, there are no mysterious ingredients in this.
• Customizable. Follow the recipe for a classic ranch, or add your twist to jazz it up!
• Quick. You can have this ready in about 10 minutes, and it lasts months!
• It’s versatile. You can use the seasoning mix on so many things!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Most of the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe are probably already in your spice cabinet. For substitutions, check out the tips and variations section below. As always, the recipe card below provides exact measurements.

• Dried parsley
• Dried scallions or chives
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dill weed
• Sugar
• Black pepper

You’ll notice that the dry seasoning recipe contains zero salt. One of my biggest pet peeves is how salty seasoning blends can be, so I leave the salt out. I like a lot of flavor, so leaving the salt out of the dry mix allows you to use as much as you want without the dressing being too salty. 

Recommended Equipment
Dried Dill	Dried Parsley	Dried Chives

How To Make Homemade Ranch Dressing Mix

You can whip this up in minutes! I prefer to run mine through a small food processor, which requires an extra bowl to wash, but it’s worth it.

1. Add all of the ingredients to a bowl and whisk to combine.
2. It’s optional, but I recommend pulsing the ingredients in a small food processor. It gives the mix a finer texture and helps prevent settling. If you choose to do this, skip the first step and add everything right into the base of the food processor!

(That might be the easiest recipe I’ve ever written – ha!)

How To Use Dry Ranch Seasoning

Always shake the mix well before using, especially if you skip the food processor step above. I use these approximate amounts for a small batch of dressing or dip. The amount you use will vary based on how much of the seasoning you prefer.

• To make ranch salad dressing:
  • Add equal parts of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt to a bowl. (equal parts – 1/2 cup each)
  • Sprinkle in as much of the ranch dressing mix as you want. (one and a half tablespoons)
  • Add lemon juice to thin it out. (one tablespoon)
  • I like a touch of Dijon mustard. (one or two teaspoons)
  • Add milk of choice to thin it out. (two tablespoons of half-and-half)
  • Mix well, taste, and add salt to taste, a small pinch at a time. 
  • Refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors combine.
  • Taste and adjust the salt one last time after it’s been in the fridge.

I like adding a half teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce and red wine vinegar for an extra layer of flavor. A tiny amount of both gives the dressing a more complex and delicious taste. 

• To make a homemade ranch dip:
  • Follow the exact directions above, but omit the lemon juice and milk. Since dip is thicker than dressing, you don’t need the extra liquid.

How To Use Homemade Ranch Dressing Mix

Since my mix does not contain buttermilk powder, it is more of a seasoning blend than a dressing mix. Here are some of my favorite ways to use it.

• Sprinkle it on potatoes before roasting for the best ranch potatoes ever.
• Mix into ground beef for the most amazing ranch burgers.
• Add to softened butter for ranch-flavored compound butter.
• Make a bacon and ranch cheese ball or mini cheeseballs!
• Add it to your favorite Mississippi pot roast recipe.
• Sprinkle it on popcorn.

You can easily double or triple this recipe. Store it in a glass container in a cool, dry place away from heat and humidity.

Helpful Tips

• Two tablespoons of the dry mix replace one store-bought packet.
• Remember that both the dressing and dip will thicken in the refrigerator.
• The flavor will change once you let the dressing rest, so I suggest tasting it again for any necessary adjustments.

Variations

• If you like spicy food, add a dash of cayenne.
• Love cheese? Add some Parmesan cheese.
• Try adding some ome lemon juice to brighten it up.
• Add any combination of your favorite fresh herbs to make a herby ranch dressing.

Pro tip. Homemade food and gifts are the best, and I think a homemade ranch dressing mix is perfect! Make a big batch, add it to pretty little jars, a ribbon, and a label, and you have a delicious and thoughtful gift. My daughter loves receiving things like this for a teacher appreciation gift!

Equipment Used In This Recipe

• Measuring spoons—I suggest this shape over round. They fit into narrow spice jars better.
• Mixing bowl—I recommend mixing bowls with lids. SO functional.
• Small food processor—I own this set and it’s my favorite kitchen appliance!
• Spice jar—for a pretty way to store this recipe and all your other favorite spice blends.
• Salad dressing jar—I love keeping dressings in a pretty jar so they’re ready to go right onto the table.
• Long-tasting spoons—optional but highly recommended! I use my tasting spoons all the time.

If you’ve tried my homemade ranch dressing mix or any recipe on my site, please leave a comment below!

More Recipes You May Like

• Savory Cottage Cheese Bowls
• Shrimp Rice Bowl With Ranch
• 4-Ingredient Chicken Salad With Ranch
• Easy Meal Prep Chicken Thighs
• Low Carb Gluten Free Sausage Balls

Save This Homemade Ranch Dressing Mix To Pinterest

Homemade Ranch Dressing Mix

Homemade ranch dressing mix is quick and easy, has better ingredients, and you can use it for much more than just salad dressing!

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Prep Time: 15 minutes mins

Resting Time: 3 hours hrs

Total Time: 15 minutes mins

Servings: 0.5 cup

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons dried parsley
• 2 tablespoons freeze-dried scallions (or dried chives)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 - 2 teaspoons dried dill weed
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (or sweetener of choice)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

• Add all of the ingredients to a bowl.
• Whisk well to combine.
• Taste and adjust the salt.
• I recommend letting it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

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