I'm a ranch dressing fanatic. Seriously, I put it on everything. From pizza to veggies, I can't get enough. Over the years, I've tried countless brands and even ventured into making my own. It's been quite the delicious journey, and I'm excited to share my findings with you!
Like many, I often found myself staring down the condiment aisle, overwhelmed by the sheer number of ranch dressing options. Which one was actually good? Was there a hidden gem I was missing? And then there's the refrigerated section, promising freshness and homemade taste. It was all so confusing! I needed to find the best ranch dressing, whether store-bought or homemade, for all my dipping and salad needs.
After much experimentation (and probably consuming more ranch than any one person should), I discovered a couple of reliable store-bought options. First, I found Ken's Steakhouse Buttermilk Ranch. It's a classic for a reason. I love its tangy flavor and thick consistency. It's perfect for dipping chicken nuggets or fries. Then, I stumbled upon Litehouse Homestyle Ranch in the refrigerated section. This one has a fresher, more vibrant taste. I prefer it on salads, but honestly, it's also pretty amazing for dipping. I've even used it as a veggie dip for parties. Both are staples in my fridge now.
While store-bought is convenient, I also wanted to try making my own ranch dressing. I'd heard it was easy and tasted better than anything you could buy in a bottle. So, I gave it a shot. My first attempt was a disaster – too thin, not enough flavor. But I kept experimenting, and eventually, I found a recipe that I loved.
The secret? Simplicity. I now buy a 16oz container of sour cream and a packet of Hidden Valley Ranch powder. I just dump the packet into the sour cream, mix it well with a fork, and refrigerate it overnight. Seriously, that's it! The next day, I have ranch dressing that rivals anything I've had in a restaurant. And it only took me about 3 minutes to prepare. Plus, I control the thickness and can add extra spices if I'm feeling adventurous.
I also learned a valuable lesson about refrigerated ranch. I'd always assumed that the unrefrigerated stuff in the condiment aisle was inferior. Turns out, I was right! The best store-bought ranch dressings are almost always in the produce aisle, where they're kept cold. Lighthouse is my go-to, and Marie's is a decent alternative. I've also heard whispers of GW Clisso's being "god tier," but I haven't been able to find it yet. The search continues!
Here's the simple recipe I use for homemade ranch:
Instructions:
Tips for the perfect homemade ranch: