7 Great Options for Making Ranch Dressing

If you’re a fan of creamy, flavorful ranch dressing, you’re going to love how easy it is to make your own at home — especially when you start with our Harvest Ranch Ranch Seasoning! Made with fresh-picked dill and parsley straight from our garden, our blend brings an extra burst of homegrown flavor you can’t find in a store-bought bottle. With just a few simple ingredients and a good shake in a jar, you’ll have a fresh, delicious ranch dressing that’s perfect for salads, veggies, wings, and more. What could be better than knowing exactly what’s going into your dressing — and that it started from the soil in our backyard?

Please note: This recipe is designed for anyone who already has Harvest Ranch’s Ranch Seasoning on hand. It’s the easiest way to bring garden-fresh flavor straight to your table!

Can I use buttermilk instead of regular milk?

Absolutely! Using buttermilk in your ranch dressing gives it a tangy kick that many people love. The natural acidity in buttermilk enhances the flavors of the seasoning, giving it that classic, restaurant-style taste. Buttermilk also adds a slightly richer texture, making the dressing have a nicer mouth-feel. If you like your ranch dressing a little bolder and with that traditional zip, buttermilk is a fantastic swap!

How long will it keep in the fridge?

Homemade ranch dressing will stay fresh in the fridge for about a week.

Be sure to store it in an airtight container, like a mason jar, to keep it tasting its best. Always give it a little shake before using, as it may naturally separate slightly over time. If you notice it thickening slightly after sitting, you can always stir in a splash of milk to thin it out.

And of course, give it a quick smell or taste before using if it’s been close to that one-week mark, just to be safe (my girls always have me do this because they are never quite sure!).

Can I make it thicker or thinner?

Yes, you sure can!

To make your ranch dressing thicker (perfect for dipping things like wings, veggie trays, or pizza crusts), just use a little less milk or add an extra spoonful of sour cream or mayonnaise.

On the other hand, if you want it thinner for easy drizzling over salads or grain bowls, simply stir in a splash or two of extra milk until you reach your desired consistency.

One of the best things about homemade ranch dressing is that it’s customizable—you can make it just the way you love it!

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, you can definitely make a dairy-free ranch dressing!

Just swap the milk for a plant-based milk like almond or soy, and use dairy-free versions of mayonnaise and sour cream.

Look for options that are unsweetened and plain, so they don’t change the flavor of the dressing too much. It still turns out creamy, tangy, and delicious, so you don’t have to miss out on that homemade ranch experience even if you’re avoiding dairy!

Does it taste better after chilling?

Yes, it does!

Letting your ranch dressing chill for at least 30 minutes gives the flavors time to really combine the flavors, creating a richer, more balanced taste. I recommend at least hour or two in the fridge, so you get a noticeable difference in flavor!

If you’re planning ahead, you can even make it the day before you need it and let it chill overnight—it’ll be even better by the time you’re ready to serve.

What’s another great way to use ranch dressing?

I like to make a ranch dip as well- recipe coming soon!

Turning this dressing into a thicker dip is perfect for parties, cookouts, or game days. Just reduce the milk a bit, add a touch more sour cream if you want it extra thick, and you’ll have a crave-worthy dip for everything from chips to chicken tenders. Stay tuned, because we’ll be sharing our favorite ranch dip recipe soon, which uses the same Harvest Ranch Seasoning base you already love!

Bonus Tip: Fun Ways to Customize Your Ranch
One of the best parts about making homemade ranch dressing is getting to play around with it! If you want a little kick, stir in a pinch of cayenne or some freshly cracked black pepper. For an herby twist, add extra chopped chives or a little basil from your garden. You can even mix in a spoonful of parmesan cheese for a creamy, savory ranch that's perfect for dipping pizza crusts. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a fun way to make your Harvest Ranch Ranch Dressing truly your own!

Looking for some more great recipes?

Be sure to check out all that Harvest Ranch has to offer.