Name: Homemade Ranch Dressing
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt; ¼ cup milk; 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley (or ½ tbsp dried parsley); 1 tsp coarsely ground fresh pepper; ½ tsp sea salt; ½ tsp dried dill; ¼ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp onion powder; ⅛ tsp dried thyme

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This Homemade Ranch Dressing is a creamy, flavorful, and healthier version of the classic. Made with Greek yogurt as the base, it’s lower in fat but still rich and tangy, thanks to the perfect blend of herbs and spices. Whether you’re drizzling it on salads, using it as a dip, or spreading it on sandwiches, this homemade ranch dressing will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Homemade Ranch Dressing is the perfect combination of tangy, creamy, and herb-infused flavors. By using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or sour cream, it’s a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. It’s quick to make, customizable to your flavor preferences, and perfect for a variety of uses, from salads to snacks. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen!

Ingredients

1 cup Greek yogurt
¼ cup milk
1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley (or ½ tbsp dried parsley)
1 tsp coarsely ground fresh pepper
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp dried dill
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
⅛ tsp dried thyme

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Whisk the yogurt and milk
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and milk until smooth and well combined.
Add the seasonings
Whisk in the chopped parsley (or dried parsley) followed by the remaining seasonings: coarsely ground pepper, sea salt, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the herbs are evenly distributed.
Refrigerate and shake
Transfer the dressing to a mason jar or airtight container with a tight-fitting lid. Refrigerate for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
Shake before using
Shake the jar well before each use to ensure the dressing is well mixed.

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 1 ¼ cups (6-8 servings)
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Refrigeration time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 5 minutes

Variations

Vegan version: Substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use non-dairy milk to make this dressing vegan.
Extra creamy: For a richer dressing, add a bit more Greek yogurt or use full-fat yogurt for extra creaminess.
More flavor: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a bit of Dijon mustard to enhance the flavor.
Spicy ranch: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, sriracha, or finely chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the ranch dressing in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed mason jar or airtight container for up to 1 week.
Reheating: This dressing is meant to be served cold, so there’s no need to reheat it.

FAQs

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, this ranch dressing can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors deepen and meld together after refrigerating for a few hours, making it even tastier.

Is this ranch dressing gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Can I use a different herb instead of parsley?

Yes, you can use fresh or dried basil, chives, or even cilantro as alternatives to parsley if you prefer a different flavor.

How can I make this dressing thicker?

If you want a thicker ranch dressing, simply add more Greek yogurt or reduce the amount of milk. You can also add a tablespoon of sour cream for extra thickness.

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

While Greek yogurt gives this dressing its creamy texture and tang, you can use regular yogurt, but the dressing will be thinner. Strain regular yogurt through a cheesecloth or coffee filter if you want to thicken it.

Can I use this ranch dressing as a dip?

Yes! This ranch dressing works perfectly as a dip for veggies, chips, or even as a dip for wings.

How do I make this dressing dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt (such as coconut, almond, or soy yogurt) and use a non-dairy milk.

How long will this dressing last in the fridge?

This homemade ranch dressing will last for up to 1 week in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried. Just use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as the dried ones (for example, 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley equals about 1 teaspoon of dried).

Can I make this dressing spicy?

Yes, if you prefer a spicier ranch, add some hot sauce, sriracha, or cayenne pepper to taste.

Conclusion

This Homemade Ranch Dressing is a healthier, flavorful alternative to store-bought options. Made with Greek yogurt and simple ingredients, it’s perfect for salads, dipping, or as a spread for sandwiches. Quick to prepare and full of fresh flavors, this ranch dressing is versatile and easy to customize to your preferences. Keep it in the fridge for a week’s worth of delicious, creamy dressing ready to enhance all your favorite dishes!

Maggie