Creamy, tangy, and laced with just the right mix of herbs, this Best Ranch Dressing is about to become your go-to dip, drizzle, and dressing. Whether you’re dressing a salad, dunking fries, or jazzing up a wrap, this homemade version takes minutes to make and tastes so much better than store-bought.

This ranch is thick enough to cling to veggies but pourable enough to drizzle over everything from baked potatoes to grilled chicken. Plus, you control the flavors—make it extra garlicky, herb-forward, or lighten it up with Greek yogurt. It’s the perfect base for adding your own signature twist.

What Kind of Herbs Should I Use?

Fresh herbs are ideal for maximum flavor and brightness, but dried herbs work wonderfully when that’s what you have on hand. Dill, parsley, and chives are the holy trinity of ranch herbs. If you’re feeling adventurous, a touch of tarragon or thyme adds complexity. Just remember, dried herbs are more concentrated, so you’ll use less than fresh.

Ingredients for the Best Ranch Dressing

Mayonnaise: The creamy foundation that gives ranch its signature body.
Sour Cream: Adds a subtle tang and balances the richness.
Buttermilk: Thins out the dressing and brings that beloved tangy zip.
Fresh Garlic: Minced or grated, it adds a savory depth.
Dill (fresh or dried): Essential for that classic ranch flavor.
Parsley (fresh or dried): Bright and grassy, it lifts the whole mix.
Chives: Mild onion flavor without overpowering the dressing.
Salt & Pepper: To round out and balance the flavor.
Lemon Juice or White Vinegar: Adds brightness and extra tang.

How To Make the Best Ranch Dressing

Step 1: Mix the Base

In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 1/2 cup buttermilk. Whisk until smooth.

Step 2: Add the Herbs and Seasonings

Stir in 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried), 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives, 1 small garlic clove (minced), 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3: Adjust to Taste

Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. If it’s too thick for your liking, stir in more buttermilk a tablespoon at a time.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. It gets even better after a few hours.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Ranch

Once made, this ranch dressing keeps beautifully in a sealed jar or container in the fridge for up to one week. Give it a quick stir before each use. It thickens slightly as it sits, which makes it even better for dipping fresh veggies or spreading on sandwiches. For a thinner pour, stir in a splash of milk or more buttermilk before serving.

What to Serve With Best Ranch Dressing?

Fresh Veggie Platter

Celery, carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers—you name it. Ranch makes any veggie tray irresistible.

Chicken Wings

Cool down spicy wings with a creamy ranch dip on the side.

Loaded Baked Potatoes

Swap out sour cream for a drizzle of this herb-packed dressing.

Crispy Chicken Tenders

Ranch and tenders? Always a win. Try it with these Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken.

Garden Salads

Take your simple salad from good to gourmet with a generous splash of ranch.

Roasted Veggies

Perfect with Parmesan Baked Potatoes or Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes.

Want More Sauce and Dressing Ideas?

If you’re loving this Best Ranch Dressing, here are more delicious and versatile sauces to try:

Shrimp Butter Spread Recipe for a seafood-friendly option.
Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup that pairs beautifully with ranch-dipped grilled cheese.
Easy Marinated Mushrooms Recipe as an appetizer alongside ranch.
Crispy Fried Zucchini — your next ranch dipping star.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites for a savory pairing.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe some smoked paprika or a spicy jalapeño kick? I’d love to hear your spin—drop your tips or questions in the comments.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Best Ranch Dressing

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 1 ½ cups
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Skip the store-bought stuff and make this *Best Ranch Dressing* at home in just minutes! Creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh herbs, this easy recipe is perfect as a salad dressing, dip for veggies, or sauce for wings and tenders. It’s one of those quick recipes that adds instant flavor to any dish. If you’re looking for *easy dinner ideas*, *healthy snack dips*, or just new *food ideas* to upgrade your meals, this ranch dressing is a must-try.