If you love the classic taste of Runza Ranch Dressing, you’re going to be thrilled with this recipe! I’ve got a homemade version that nails that rich, creamy texture and those fresh herb flavors we all crave.
Whether you’re tossing it on a salad, using it as a dip for veggies, or adding a little something special to your favorite dishes, this ranch dressing is going to be a game-changer. And the best part? It’s super easy to make right in your own kitchen!
What so Special About Runza Ranch Dressing Recipe?
The Runza Ranch Dressing recipe is special because it combines rich, creamy textures with the freshness of herbs, creating a perfectly balanced flavor. Unlike store-bought dressings, this homemade version uses full-fat mayonnaise and sour cream for an indulgent, velvety consistency.
Fresh chives, parsley, and a hint of dill enhance the dressing with a vibrant, aromatic taste that’s hard to beat. It’s versatile enough for salads, dips, or sandwiches, and chilling the dressing allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients for Runza Ranch Dressing Recipe
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment & Tools Required
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender (optional, for a smoother texture)
- Airtight container for storage
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Servings: About 2 cups
Runza Ranch Dressing Recipe
Step-01: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, add 1 cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of buttermilk. Whisk them together until they are well combined and smooth. The mixture should be creamy with a slightly tangy aroma from the buttermilk.
Step-02: Add the Herbs and Spices
Stir in the finely chopped fresh chives, parsley, 1 teaspoon of dried dill, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. These ingredients give the dressing its classic ranch flavor, with a nice balance of fresh and savory notes.
Step-03: Season to Taste
Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Start with a pinch of each, taste, and adjust as necessary. This step is crucial to bringing all the flavors together.
Step-04: Whisk Until Smooth
Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and all the ingredients are evenly distributed. If you prefer a smoother texture, transfer the dressing to a blender and blend until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step-05: Chill and Serve
Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dressing.
Creative Serving Ideas for Runza Ranch Dressing Recipe
1. Classic Salad Dressing: Drizzle this creamy ranch over a fresh garden salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and croutons for a deliciously tangy twist.
2. Vegetable Dip: Serve it as a dip for a colorful veggie platter featuring carrots, celery, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli. It’s a great way to encourage healthy snacking!
3. Chicken Wings: Pair the ranch dressing with crispy chicken wings, whether they’re spicy, BBQ, or plain. The cool, creamy dressing balances out the heat perfectly.
4. Pizza Sauce: Use the ranch dressing as a dipping sauce for pizza, especially with flavors like buffalo chicken, pepperoni, or veggie. It adds a creamy contrast to the cheesy goodness.
5. Sandwich Spread: Spread the ranch on sandwiches or wraps, particularly with grilled chicken, turkey, or roast beef. It adds a rich, tangy flavor that elevates the sandwich.
6. Baked Potato Topper: Spoon the dressing over a baked potato topped with bacon, cheese, and chives. It’s a delicious alternative to sour cream.
7. French Fry Dip: Use the ranch as a dip for French fries or sweet potato fries. The creamy texture complements the crispiness of the fries.
8. Grilled Vegetables: Drizzle over grilled vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or corn on the cob for a flavorful finish that complements the smoky taste of the grill.
9. Taco Topping: Add a dollop of ranch to tacos or burritos, especially chicken or veggie varieties. It provides a cool, creamy contrast to spicy or seasoned fillings.
10. Chicken Salad: Mix the ranch dressing into a chicken salad with diced chicken, celery, and grapes. Serve it on a bed of lettuce or in a sandwich for a creamy, flavorful dish.
URRecipe Community Tips on Runza Ranch Dressing Recipe
1. Use Fresh Buttermilk: Fresh buttermilk enhances the tangy flavor and creaminess of the dressing. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Let It Chill: After mixing the dressing, let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and develop, making the dressing taste even better.
3. Customize the Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or cilantro for a unique twist on the classic ranch flavor.
4. Add a Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
5. Make It Thicker: For a thicker dressing, reduce the buttermilk or add more mayonnaise. This consistency is great for spreading on sandwiches or using as a dip.
6. Blend for Smoothness: If you prefer a smoother texture, use a blender to mix the ingredients. This ensures that the herbs are finely incorporated and the dressing is silky smooth.
7. Balance the Acidity: If the dressing is too tangy for your taste, add a pinch of sugar or a little more mayonnaise to balance the acidity.
8. Store Properly: Keep your dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to a week. Stir well before each use, as some separation may occur.
9. Use It Creatively: Beyond salads, try using this ranch dressing as a dip for pizza, a spread for burgers, or a topping for baked potatoes. Its versatility is endless!
10. Double the Recipe: This dressing is so good that you might want to double the recipe and have extra on hand for the week. It’s perfect for meal prep or when you need a quick, flavorful addition to any dish.
How to Store Leftover Runza Ranch Dressing?
To store leftover Runza Ranch Dressing, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to one week. Before using, give it a quick stir as the ingredients may separate slightly over time.
Avoid leaving the dressing at room temperature for extended periods to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage.
Runza Ranch Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, add 1 cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of buttermilk. Whisk them together until they are well combined and smooth. The mixture should be creamy with a slightly tangy aroma from the buttermilk.
- Stir in the finely chopped fresh chives, parsley, 1 teaspoon of dried dill, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. These ingredients give the dressing its classic ranch flavor, with a nice balance of fresh and savory notes.
- Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Start with a pinch of each, taste, and adjust as necessary. This step is crucial to bringing all the flavors together.
- Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and all the ingredients are evenly distributed. If you prefer a smoother texture, transfer the dressing to a blender and blend until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dressing.
Video
Notes
Common queries on Runza Ranch Dressing Recipe
These commonly asked questions and their short answers will give you an better understanding of this Runza Ranch Dressing Recipe
1. What is Runza Ranch made of?
Runza Ranch Dressing is made from a combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, fresh chives, parsley, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. These ingredients are mixed together to create a rich and creamy dressing with fresh herb flavors.
2. What is ranch dressing made of?
Ranch dressing is typically made of a creamy base that includes mayonnaise and sour cream or buttermilk. It is flavored with a variety of herbs and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and chives, along with salt and pepper for seasoning.
3. What gives ranch dressing its distinctive flavor?
The distinctive flavor of ranch dressing comes from the combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and dill. These ingredients, along with fresh herbs like chives and parsley, create the tangy, savory, and herbaceous taste that ranch dressing is known for.
4. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones in this recipe?
Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh ones. However, fresh herbs generally provide a brighter and more vibrant flavor. If you’re using dried herbs, remember to use about one-third of the amount specified for fresh herbs since dried herbs are more concentrated.
5. How long does homemade Runza Ranch Dressing last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade Runza Ranch Dressing should last for up to one week. Be sure to give it a good stir before each use, as some separation may occur.
6. Can I make the dressing thicker?
Yes, you can make the dressing thicker by reducing the amount of buttermilk in the recipe or by adding more mayonnaise or sour cream. This will give you a creamier consistency, which is perfect for dipping.
7. Is it possible to make this dressing dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version of this dressing, you can use dairy-free mayonnaise and substitute the sour cream and buttermilk with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk yogurt and almond milk with a splash of lemon juice.
8. What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of regular milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.
9. Can I freeze the Runza Ranch Dressing?
Freezing is not recommended for ranch dressing as the texture may change once thawed, becoming grainy or separating. It’s best to enjoy this dressing fresh.
10. What dishes pair well with Runza Ranch Dressing?
Runza Ranch Dressing pairs well with a variety of dishes, including salads, chicken wings, sandwiches, grilled vegetables, pizza, and as a dip for fresh vegetables or French fries. Its creamy texture and savory flavor make it a versatile addition to many meals.
This homemade Runza Ranch Dressing is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you’re tossing it with a salad, using it as a dip, or even as a sandwich spread, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the fresh, creamy taste that’s sure to elevate any dish!
Enjoy your homemade dressing, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!
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Delicious!!
Thanks