Store-bought ranch is convenient, but homemade takes things to another level. This Buttermilk Ranch Dressing is creamy, tangy, and loaded with fresh herbs that lift every bite. Once you make it from scratch, you’ll likely skip the bottled versions for good.

More than a salad dressing, this ranch is a fantastic dip for fries, wings, or vegetables, and it even makes a tasty drizzle for pizza crust. It comes together in minutes with simple ingredients you probably have on hand. Whisk it, chill it, and let the flavor do the rest.
Ingredients for buttermilk ranch

- Mayonnaise: The creamy base that gives richness.
- Buttermilk: Adds tang and the classic ranch texture.
- Sour cream: Boosts creaminess and adds a subtle tang.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the dressing with a fresh citrus note.
- Garlic powder: Provides gentle savory depth.
- Fresh chives: Mild onion flavor and freshness.
- Onion powder: Enhances the savory profile.
- Dried parsley: Traditional, mild herb flavor.
- Fresh dill: Herbaceous brightness that defines the ranch.
- Salt & pepper: To taste, to balance the flavors.
How to make buttermilk ranch dressing
Combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, chopped fresh herbs, and salt and pepper in a bowl. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Cover and chill the dressing for at least two hours before serving to let the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Enjoy this creamy, tangy homemade ranch with salads, wings, roasted vegetables, or as a dip for chips and fries.

Commonly Asked Questions
Stored in an airtight container, it will keep in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Yes. Reduce the buttermilk slightly or add more sour cream until you reach the desired consistency.
Serve it chilled on salads, as a dip for veggies or wings, or drizzle it over pizza, roasted potatoes, or sandwiches.

Buttermilk Ranch Dressing
Cook: 5 mins |
Servings: 1 tablespoon
Ingredients
- ¼ c mayonnaise
- ¾ c buttermilk
- ½ c sour cream
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped
- Pinch salt & pepper
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a mixing bowl and whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Transfer to a container, cover, and refrigerate. Chill for at least two hours before serving.
- Use within 7 days for best quality.
Video
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 18 g |
Protein: 10 g |
Fat: 70 g
Nutrition information is an approximation.
Additional Info
Author: August DeWindt
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes
Course: Sauces | Cuisine: American
Keyword: dip, salad dressing