A Simple Homemade Ranch Dressing (With No Buttermilk!)

If you’ve ever gone to make ranch dressing only to realize you don’t have buttermilk in the fridge, you’re not alone, because that’s literally me constantly.

The good news is….. you really don’t need it.

This homemade ranch dressing without buttermilk is creamy, tangy, and packed with classic ranch flavor using simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.

It comes together in just about five minutes and tastes even better than the bottled stuff.

Once you start making ranch dressing from scratch, it’s hard to go back.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Ranch Dressing Without Buttermilk

• No buttermilk required
• Ready in 5 minutes
• Uses homemade ranch seasoning
• Perfect as a dip or dressing
• Tastes better than store-bought

Ingredients You’ll Need

Mayonnaise
This creates the creamy base for the dressing, you elevate it even more with this homemade mayonnaise recipe.

Sour cream
Adds tanginess and balances the richness of the mayo.

Milk
Thins the dressing to the perfect consistency.

Homemade ranch seasoning
This brings all the classic ranch flavor, here’s the recipe.

Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
Adds brightness and replaces the tang you normally get from buttermilk.

How to Make Homemade Ranch Dressing Without Buttermilk

1. Combine the Base

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth.

2. Add Seasoning

Stir in the homemade ranch seasoning.

3. Thin the Dressing

Add milk a little at a time until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.

4. Add Brightness

Stir in lemon juice or apple cider vinegar.

5. Chill for Best Flavor

Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before serving so the flavors can blend together.

Sid’s Tips For Homemade Ranch Dressing:

For thicker ranch (great for dips and such!):
Use less milk.

For thinner ranch (perfect for salads):
Add a splash more milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Let it rest:
Homemade ranch tastes even better after it sits in the fridge for a bit.

Ways to Use Homemade Ranch Dressing

This ranch dressing works for so many things:

• salad dressing
• veggie dip
• chicken marinade
• burger spread
• drizzle for wraps and bowls
• dipping sauce for pizza or wings

Storage Tips

Store ranch dressing in an airtight container or mason jar in the refrigerator.

It will stay fresh for about 5–7 days.

Stir before serving if it thickens in the fridge.

Loved this recipe? Be sure to tag us @frontporchfreshrecipes on Instagram if you made it, we can’t wait to see! Want to Pin this recipe for later? Click the Pin It button on any of the images below! Happy cooking!