Ranch dressing isn’t just a salad topper—it’s a beloved classic that brings creamy, tangy, herby goodness to everything from crisp veggies to juicy wings. Making Arizona Ranch Sauce from scratch is easier than you think, and the difference is truly worth it. This homemade version is rich and flavorful, with the perfect balance of fresh herbs, garlic, and a tangy kick—all without any of the preservatives or additives you find in store-bought bottles.
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Whether you’re dipping, drizzling, or mixing, this ranch dressing will quickly become your go-to for adding that fresh, zesty punch to your meals. Plus, it comes together in minutes with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Why We Call It “Arizona Ranch”
Growing up in Mesa, Arizona, I tasted ranch on everything—from pizza crusts to grilled corn on the cob. Ranch wasn’t just a condiment; it was a way of life. The tangy, herby flavor pairs so perfectly with the bold, smoky, and spicy flavors of the Southwest.
This recipe pays homage to those roots. It’s thick and creamy thanks to the combo of mayonnaise and buttermilk, with a touch of garlic, onion, and celery salt that gives it depth. The black pepper and parsley flakes bring a balance of spice and freshness that makes this ranch extra special.
The best part? It takes five minutes to put together. No fancy ingredients, no fuss. Just real, honest ranch the way we love it.
Why You’ll Love This Ranch Dressing
Quick & Easy – Just whisk and chill. Ready in under 10 minutes (though chilling makes it even better).
Better Than Store-Bought – Fresher, creamier, and free of preservatives.
Versatile – Works as a dip, drizzle, dressing, or spread.
Southwestern Flair – Onion, garlic, and celery salt give it that extra boldness you don’t find in standard ranch.
Customizable – Easily adjust the thickness, spice, or herbs to fit your taste.
Ingredient Breakdown
Here’s what makes this ranch dressing so good:
- Buttermilk – Adds tang and thins out the dressing to the perfect pourable consistency.
- Mayonnaise – The creamy base. Use full-fat mayo for the richest texture.
- Onion Salt – A savory flavor booster with a hint of sweetness.
- Garlic Salt – Adds depth and a subtle garlic bite.
- Black Pepper – For a little heat and balance. Freshly cracked pepper gives the best flavor.
- Dried Parsley Flakes ) – For a pop of color and gentle herby freshness.
- Celery Salt – The “secret ingredient” that gives this ranch a distinctive edge.
Step-by-Step Tips
Whisk Buttermilk & Mayo First – Make sure the base is silky smooth before adding spices.
Add Seasonings Gradually – Stir in the salts, pepper, and parsley, tasting as you go. Adjust to your preference.
Chill Before Serving – At least 1 hour in the fridge helps the flavors meld. Overnight is even better.
Shake or Stir Before Use – Since it’s homemade and free of stabilizers, natural separation is normal.
Customize the Consistency – If you prefer a thicker dip, reduce the buttermilk. For a thinner drizzle, add a splash more.
Variations
This base recipe is delicious on its own, but here are a few fun twists:
Avocado Ranch – Blend in half a ripe avocado for a creamy, green twist.
Spicy Arizona Ranch – Stir in a finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Herby Ranch – Add fresh dill, chives, or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Smoky Ranch – Mix in ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke.
Serving Suggestions
The beauty of ranch dressing is how many ways you can use it. Here are some of our family favorites:
- As a Dip – Fresh-cut veggies, chips, pretzels, or sweet potato fries.
- With Wings – Classic buffalo wings or spicy BBQ wings are always better with ranch.
- On Salads – Drizzle over a taco salad, Cobb salad, or a simple garden mix.
- As a Spread – Slather onto wraps, burgers, or sandwiches.
- With Grilled Meats – Use as a drizzle over BBQ chicken, steak, or pork tenderloin.
- Pizza Night – Perfect for dipping crusts or drizzling on a slice of pepperoni.
Storage
Fridge – Store in a sealed jar or container for up to 5–7 days.
Stir Before Serving – Natural separation is normal—just give it a good shake.
Make Ahead – Tastes even better after resting at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
FAQ
Can I make this ranch dressing ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors actually deepen and meld beautifully if you let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
How long does homemade ranch dressing keep?
Stored in an airtight container, it will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I make this ranch dressing dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the buttermilk with a dairy-free milk (like almond or oat milk) mixed with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar, and use dairy-free mayo or yogurt alternatives.
What herbs are traditionally used in ranch dressing?
Classic ranch typically features parsley, dill, and chives, but you can customize with your favorite fresh or dried herbs to match your taste.
Can I adjust the thickness of the dressing?
Yes! For a thinner dressing, add a little more buttermilk or milk. To make it thicker, reduce the liquid or add a bit more mayonnaise or sour cream.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this ranch dressing is mild and creamy with a subtle tang. If you want a little kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Why This Recipe Works
- Two-Part Creaminess – The combo of mayo + buttermilk ensures a dressing that’s rich but not heavy.
- Simple Spice Blend – Onion salt, garlic salt, black pepper, parsley, and celery salt create depth without overwhelming the palate.
- Customizable – The recipe is a flexible canvas—spicy, smoky, herby, or classic.
- Quick to Make – Just whisk and chill. No cooking, no blending, no fuss.
- Southwestern Inspiration – The seasoning blend nods to Arizona flavors, making it stand out from everyday ranch.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Arizona Ranch Dressing isn’t just a sauce—it’s a flavor-packed staple that brings a touch of comfort and nostalgia to every meal. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, packing school lunches, or jazzing up a simple weeknight dinner, this ranch delivers that perfect balance of tangy, herby, and creamy in every bite.
What makes it truly special is how it blends the bold, fresh flavors of the Southwest with the ease of a quick homemade recipe. It comes together in minutes but stays fresh and delicious all week long. Once you make this from scratch, store-bought ranch just won’t compare.
So, grab your whisk and your favorite fresh herbs, pull out the buttermilk and mayo, and get ready to elevate your salads, snacks, and sandwiches with a dressing you’ll keep coming back to.
Love dips? Try out some of my favorites:
Arizona Ranch Dip
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and mayonnaise. Whisk until smooth.
- Add the onion salt, garlic salt, pepper, parsley flakes, and celery salt. Stir until well blended.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.
- Serve chilled as a dip for veggies, chips, or wings—or use as a dressing for salads and wraps.
Notes
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Adjusting Thickness: For a thinner dressing, add more buttermilk or milk a tablespoon at a time. For a thicker dip, reduce the liquid or add extra mayo or sour cream.
- Make Ahead: This dressing tastes best after chilling for at least an hour, which helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Give it a good stir before each use.
- Flavor Variations: Add garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of cayenne for extra depth and a little kick if you like.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free milk and mayo alternatives, and swap buttermilk with a plant-based milk plus lemon juice or vinegar.
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