Homemade Herby Ranch
About This Homemade Herby Ranch
This homemade ranch dressing is creamy, tangy, herb-packed, and unbelievably easy. It’s everything bottled ranch wishes it could be. Simply mix buttermilk, mayo, spices, and fresh herbs, chill briefly, and you’ve got the perfect dipping sauce for Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders, veggies, wings, fries, or anything you love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Way better than bottled ranch—fresher, creamier, more flavor
Uses simple ingredients you already have
Customizable herbs (use as many or as few as you want)
Takes less than 10 minutes to make
Super versatile: dip, drizzle, dressing, sauce
Tastes even better after chilling
Ingredients You’ll Need
Buttermilk
Mayonnaise
Paprika
Garlic & onion powder
Salt & pepper
Fresh parsley, chives, and dill
How to Make It
Whisk the spices together, then stir them into a bowl of buttermilk and mayo until smooth. Add the fresh herbs and mix well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors bloom. Use as a dip, dressing, or sauce for anything.
Tips for Success
Chill before using — the flavor gets significantly better
Use full-fat buttermilk and mayo for the best texture
Adjust herbs to your taste; more dill = more “ranchy”
Thin with extra buttermilk for a pourable dressing
Add a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness (optional)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does homemade ranch last?
About 4–5 days in the fridge.
Can I use dried herbs?
Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different. Use ⅓ the amount.
Can I make it thicker?
Use less buttermilk or add more mayo.
Can I make it spicy?
Add cayenne, hot sauce, or minced jalapeño.
What to Serve With Homemade Ranch
Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders
Veggie platters
Fries, onion rings, potato wedges
Wings
Pizza (Midwest classic)
Salads
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Homemade Herby Ranch
Ingredients
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon mustard powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Instructions
In a small bowl, mix together paprika, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt.
In a medium bowl, whisk the buttermilk and mayonnaise until smooth.
Add the seasoning mixture and stir to combine.
Mix in the fresh parsley, chives, and dill.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors develop.
Use with literally anything — it is elite.
