Ranch dressing was one of my earliest condiment favorites (right after ketchup, of course). But after discovering the ingredients in store-bought salad dressings, I knew it was time to part ways. Fortunately, I created a healthier version of ranch salad dressing and a ranch dressing mix.
My kids and I enjoy it on salads, and it also serves as an excellent dry ranch seasoning for meats and veggies. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free.
Why Make a Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix?
You probably know that Hidden Valley Ranch contains many unhealthy ingredients beneath its tasty flavor. MSG, artificial flavors, and soy are just a few. It didn’t make sense to have a healthy salad only to top it with unhealthy dressing. I found a great alternative to regular ranch dressing. But I wanted another option for the ranch dressing mix I use on chicken, roasted veggies, and other dishes.
I believed I could craft a better, real-food alternative. This is what I created, and it is delightful. We keep a jar in the cabinet for use on veggies, eggs, chicken, or to make ranch dip. I buy all the ingredients in bulk to make it whenever needed. This approach also allows me to make other spices whenever required. You can find my other homemade spice blend recipes elsewhere.
Some Things Don’t Change
This ranch mix and the ranch dressing are staples in our meal rotation. I keep the powder pre-prepared and always add the other ingredients to my shopping list to quickly whip up a batch when necessary. Many things have changed since my childhood, but the love of ranch dressing seems to remain consistent. I’m thrilled to offer my kids a healthier (and more delicious) version today!
Ranch Dressing Recipe
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are likely already in your pantry. The key ingredient is dry buttermilk powder, providing that creamy tang. Unlike store-bought packets, it doesn’t contain maltodextrin. If you want a tangier ranch dressing, add fresh lemon juice to the Greek yogurt.
My preferred method for making the dip is with Greek yogurt, which adds a tangy and creamy boost of protein. For a more traditional ranch dressing, you could use 1/2 cup of sour cream and 1/2 cup of mayonnaise. Top your dip with fresh chopped dill or chives for the perfect finishing touch!
What to Use Ranch Dressing Dip On
Your family probably has a list of favorite foods to pair with ranch dressing. It makes an excellent dip for everything from chips to pizza. Serve it as an appetizer with veggies or drizzle it on a salad. Since this is a dry ranch dressing mix, it’s even more versatile. Here are some more delicious ways to use it!
Ranch Seasoning Mix Recipe
Instead of using store-bought ranch seasoning packets, create your own with simple ingredients from your pantry.
Mix all the ingredients in a small bowl.
Store the dry mix in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to use.
Use 2 tablespoons of mix for each seasoning packet of ranch mix required in a recipe.
Nutrition Facts
Ranch Seasoning Mix Recipe
Amount Per Serving: (1 serving)
Calories: 50
Calories from Fat: 9
% Daily Value*
Fat: 1g 2%
Saturated Fat: 0.4g 3%
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.05g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g
Cholesterol: 7mg 2%
Sodium: 832mg 36%
Potassium: 216mg 6%
Carbohydrates: 7g 2%
Fiber: 1g 4%
Sugar: 5g 6%
Protein: 4g 8%
Vitamin A: 51IU 1%
Vitamin C: 2mg 2%
Calcium: 139mg 14%
Iron: 0.5mg 3%
- Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
To make ranch dip, add 2 tablespoons of the ranch mix to 1 cup of Greek yogurt.
Thin ranch dip with water or milk to create buttermilk ranch dressing.
I never thought I could give up ranch dressing or thought I would want to. Now I love this real food version even more. What I thought would be the hardest part of switching to healthy, real food became one of the best.
What are your favorite ways to use ranch dressing mix? Share your thoughts below!
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