Homemade Ranch Seasoning

Ranch Seasoning Ingredients

Here I explain the best ingredients for my homemade ranch seasoning recipe, what each one does, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.

• The Milk Base – The main base has some kind of milk and a tangy flavor. I’ve tested this in 3 different ways, so choose based on your priorities:
  • Heavy Cream Powder & Cream of Tartar – I made this version first to avoid the extra sugar that regular milk or buttermilk has. The cream makes it rich and creamy, while the cream of tartar (which is acidic) gives it a little tang. Regular powdered milk would also work.
  • Coconut Cream Powder & Cream of Tartar – This combo tastes similar to the above, except it’s dairy free.
  • Buttermilk Powder – This is the classic option and I actually make it most often these days.
• Dried Herbs – I use dried parsley, dried dill, and dried chives. I don’t recommend substituting them because each is key to that classic ranch flavor.
• Spices – Simply garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper.

How To Use It As A Seasoning, Dip, or Dressing

To use it as a dip:

I usually use about 2-3 tablespoons of ranch seasoning per 1 cup of sour cream (or Greek yogurt) to make a quick dip. If you’re replacing a regular packet, that’s the equivalent amount.

To use it as a seasoning:

My rule of thumb is about 1 tablespoon per pound of meat or veggies for seasoning, but you can use more if you prefer. For specific uses, see my recipe ideas below.

To turn this mix into ranch dressing:

Here’s my quick formula:

• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or milk of choice)

Stir it together, and you’ve got about 1 3/4 cups of dressing (14 servings at 2 tablespoons each). If dressing is all you’re after, head straight to my ranch dressing recipe instead.

Recipe Ideas

I mainly use this ranch seasoning recipe in two ways, either to make ranch dressing ahead or for bold, concentrated flavor without adding extra liquid. Here are my favorites you can try:

• Salads & Dressings – Whisk it into a quick dressing and drizzle it over my Cobb salad, wedge salad, or avocado chicken salad.
• Dips & Appetizers – It works perfectly for making the dressing for my crack dip for parties, or for mixing into a quick veggie dip with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Chicken & Casseroles – Add it to my chicken bacon ranch casserole for extra flavor, stir it into slow cooker crack chicken, or sprinkle it over my juicy baked chicken (or really any chicken recipe).
• Quick Flavor Boost for Anything – More than anything, I just sprinkle it over roasted veggies or baked potatoes for an easy flavor upgrade. I also love it in wraps or sandwiches.