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A bowl of creamy homemade garlic ranch dip topped with fresh herbs, surrounded by crisp vegetables for dipping.

Creamy Garlic Ranch Dip (Better Than Store-Bought)

This Creamy Garlic Ranch Dip is a flavor-packed, homemade twist on classic ranch dressing. It’s rich yet light, bursting with fresh herbs and real garlic. The texture is perfectly dippable — not too thick, not too runny — and it gets even better after a short chill in the fridge. Ideal for parties, game day, or drizzling over salads and sandwiches.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Rest Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Dip, Dressing
Cuisine: American
Calories: 95

Ingredients
  

For the Dip:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version
  • 2 cloves garlic finely grated (or 1 roasted clove for mellow flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives chopped
  • ½ teaspoon dried dill
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons buttermilk or milk with a squeeze of lemon juice

Equipment

  • Whisk
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Mix the Base
  1. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise and sour cream. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Add Flavor
  1. Stir in grated garlic, parsley, chives, dill, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Adjust Consistency
  1. Add buttermilk (or milk mixture) a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired thickness — thicker for dipping, thinner for drizzling.
Chill and Serve
  1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors develop.
  2. Serve cold with fresh veggies, chips, fries, or wings.

Notes

 

  • Fresh Garlic Tip: Freshly grated garlic gives the best punch of flavor. For a milder, slightly sweet taste, use roasted garlic instead — it blends beautifully into the creamy base.
  • Texture Control: Add buttermilk slowly until you reach your preferred consistency. For a thicker dip (perfect for chips and veggies), start with less. For a pourable dressing, add a bit more.
  • Let It Rest: Chill the dip for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the herbs and garlic to bloom, creating that perfect ranch flavor balance.
  • Lighten It Up: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or use light mayo if you want a leaner version without losing creaminess.
  • Make Ahead: This dip actually improves after a few hours in the fridge. It’s ideal for prepping the night before a gathering.