Hidden valley buttermilk ranch recipe: best dressing

Introducing the ultimate Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch Dressing recipe—a creamy, tangy, and utterly delicious homemade version of the classic ranch dressing you know and love. This recipe takes everything great about the beloved Hidden Valley ranch flavor and brings it into your kitchen with fresh ingredients, creating a dressing that’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few pantry staples and some simple steps, you’ll have a ranch dressing that’s perfect for salads, dipping veggies, drizzling over pizza, or even using as a sauce for wraps and sandwiches.

Why I love this recipe

My family has always been obsessed with Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch. We put it on everything—salads, veggies, pizza, you name it. But as much as we loved it, I couldn’t help but wonder… could I make it just as good (or maybe even better) at home?

So, I got to work. I tested different ratios, played with seasonings, and made more batches than I can count. Then, one day, I poured a spoonful over some crisp lettuce, took a bite, and knew I had cracked the code. It was creamy, tangy, packed with that signature herby flavor—everything we loved about the original, but fresher and homemade.

Now, there’s always a jar in the fridge, ready to be drizzled, dipped, or slathered on whatever we’re eating. My family still swears by Hidden Valley, but they’ll also tell you—my version? Just as good, if not better.

Delicious copycat ranch dressing

One of the best things about this buttermilk ranch dressing is how customizable and meal-prep friendly it is. Whip up a batch in just minutes, and you’ll have a flavorful dressing that can last up to a week in the fridge, making it ideal for busy days when you need something quick and delicious. It’s a versatile addition to your meal prep routine, offering a creamy companion to everything from fresh salads to veggie bowls. Plus, this dressing gets better with time as the flavors meld together, making it even tastier after a day or two! With no artificial flavors or flavor enhancers this diy ranch dressing still delivers the same original ranch flavors! 

Best homemade dressing: vegan ranch option 

Need a dairy-free or vegan option? No problem! This copycat hidden valley ranch dressing recipe is easily adaptable for those following a vegan or plant-based diet. Simply swap out the traditional sour cream, buttermilk, and mayo for their vegan alternatives, and you’ll still enjoy the same creamy texture and zesty flavor. Using a mix of vegan sour cream, plant-based buttermilk (made by combining plant milk with lemon juice), and vegan mayo ensures that this ranch dressing is perfect for anyone who needs a dairy-free dressing without sacrificing taste or texture. Whether you’re avoiding dairy or just looking for a healthier alternative, this vegan version is a game-changer. Together with our homemade ranch seasoning mix you can make a vegan ranch dip that’s full of natural flavors and still has that real restaurant ranch taste!

Homemade restaurant style buttermilk ranch recipe 

What truly sets this Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch recipe apart is the balance of its flavors. The rich creaminess from the sour cream and mayo is perfectly complemented by the tangy buttermilk and bright lemon juice. Add in the classic herb and spice blend of parsley, dill, garlic, and onion powder, and you’ve got a dressing that’s bold, refreshing, and packed with irresistible flavor. It’s not only great for salads but also a standout dipping sauce for fries, roasted vegetables, and even as a topping for baked potatoes or veggie burgers.

With this easy-to-make, customizable, and meal-prep-friendly recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought ranch again. Whether you’re going the classic route or opting for the vegan variation, this Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch Dressing is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, if you’re craving a creamy, zesty dressing that works for all your meals and is suitable for dairy-free diets, this recipe is a must-try!

Tip: Serve this delicious diy ranch dressing with French fries, drizzled over a taco salad, or as a great flavor dip with raw veggies or potato chips.

Why this hidden valley buttermilk ranch recipe is to good 

This Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch recipe is exceptional for several reasons:

1. Perfect Balance of Flavors: The buttermilk adds a tangy depth that balances perfectly with the creamy richness of sour cream and mayonnaise. This combination creates a dressing that’s both refreshing and indulgent. It’s so much better than store-bought dressings!

2. Herb and Spice Blend: The mix of dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, and onion powder gives the dressing its classic, well-loved ranch flavor. Each herb and spice adds its own layer of complexity, making the dressing robust and flavorful. Get ready for optimum flavor in this great dip without needing any hidden valley ranch packets. This delicious homemade ranch seasoning mix is your easy shortcut to real ranch dip flavor! 

Note: the Copycat hidden valley ranch seasoning blend is included on the recipe card.

3. Creamy Texture: The use of buttermilk, sour cream, and mayo results in a smooth, creamy texture that clings beautifully to salads, veggies, and other dishes. It’s rich but not too heavy, making it versatile for various uses. It’s one of the best homemade salad dressings full of tangy flavors and delicious real food texture. 

4. Customizable and Meal-Prep Friendly: This recipe is easy to make and can be adjusted to your taste preferences. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge for up to a week, making it a great option for meal prep.

5. Vegan Option: The recipe can be easily adapted to a vegan version by substituting vegan buttermilk, sour cream, and mayo, allowing those with dietary restrictions to enjoy the same delicious flavor.

Overall, this recipe delivers a classic ranch taste that’s creamy, tangy, and versatile, making it a standout choice for adding flavor to a wide range of dishes.

What’s the difference between ranch dressing and buttermilk ranch dressing?

The main difference between ranch dressing and buttermilk ranch dressing lies in the ingredients used to achieve their flavors and textures:

1. Buttermilk Ranch Dressing:

   – Buttermilk: This version includes buttermilk, which adds a tangy, slightly acidic flavor and a thinner, more pourable consistency. The buttermilk also helps balance the richness of the other ingredients. Occasionally these recipes use buttermilk powder instead of real buttermilk to make a ranch dip buttermilk recipe.

   – Creamy Texture: The combination of buttermilk with mayonnaise and sour cream gives it a creamy yet slightly tangy flavor, making it richer and more complex.

2. Regular Ranch Dressing:

   – No Buttermilk: Traditional ranch dressing might not include buttermilk. Instead, it often relies on a combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, or milk to create a creamy base. 

   – Different Flavor Profile: Without buttermilk, the dressing may lack the tangy note and can sometimes be a bit richer or more neutral in flavor.

In essence, buttermilk ranch dressing has a distinctive tang from the buttermilk, while regular ranch may be slightly creamier and less tangy.

What are the Ingredients in hidden valley ranch dressing 

The original Hidden Valley Ranch dressing is a creamy blend of a few key ingredients. It starts with buttermilk, which gives it that signature tangy flavor. Then there’s mayonnaise, adding a rich creaminess that makes the dressing so smooth. Hidden Valley Ranch also includes a mix of herbs and spices like dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of dill, which all come together to give it that classic herby, slightly zesty taste. Finally, it’s seasoned with salt and pepper for balance. That’s the magic behind its creamy, savory flavor!

Hidden valley buttermilk ranch ingredients 

Here’s a breakdown of each ingredient and what it brings to this delicious Copycat Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch Dressing recipe:

Dressing Ingredients:

1. ½ cup (120g) sour cream (vegan option: use vegan sour cream)

   – Sour cream is the base for the dressing, giving it a creamy texture and tangy flavor that helps balance the herbs and spices. The vegan sour cream option keeps the same texture and tang but without dairy.

2. ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk (vegan option: use vegan buttermilk)

   – Buttermilk thins the dressing to a pourable consistency and adds a slightly tangy, rich flavor. The acidity helps bring out the flavors of the seasoning. Vegan buttermilk, often made with plant milk and lemon juice or plain white vinegar, mimics the tang and thinness without dairy.

3. ¼ cup (60g) mayonnaise (vegan option: use vegan mayonnaise)

   – Mayonnaise adds a rich, creamy body to the dressing and enhances the smooth texture. It also provides a subtle sweetness that complements the tangy ingredients. Vegan mayo works just as well for a plant-based version, maintaining the creaminess. Use your favorite vegan mayonnaise, or opt for my easy vegan mayonnaise recipe. 

4. 2-3 teaspoons lemon juice

   – Lemon juice brightens up the dressing with a fresh, citrusy acidity that sharpens the flavors of the herbs and cuts through the richness of the dairy or plant-based ingredients.

Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning Ingredients:

You only need a few kitchen staples to make this delicious homemade Hidden valley ranch seasoning!

1. 1 teaspoon dried parsley (0.5g)

   – Parsley brings a fresh, slightly peppery flavor with a mild herbal note. It adds a pop of green color and balances the richness of the dressing.

2. ½ teaspoon dried dill (0.2g)

   – Dill adds a distinctive tangy, slightly sweet, and citrusy note that enhances the overall flavor of the ranch and gives it its characteristic taste.

3. ¼ teaspoon dried chives (0.1g) or ½ teaspoon (1g) finely chopped fresh chives

   – Chives provide a mild onion flavor with a subtle bite, adding complexity to the seasoning blend without overpowering the dressing.

4. 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder (3g)

   – Garlic powder contributes a robust, savory depth to the dressing. It enhances the richness and adds a familiar ranch-style kick.

5. 1 teaspoon onion powder (2.4g)

   – Onion powder provides a sweet, savory flavor that pairs well with garlic and gives the dressing a classic ranch taste.

6. ½ teaspoon sea salt (3g)

   – Salt enhances all the other flavors, bringing balance to the tangy, creamy, and herbal notes.

7. ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper (0.25g)

   – Pepper adds a subtle heat and sharpness that cuts through the creaminess of the dressing, giving the dry mix a well-rounded finish.

Each ingredient works together to create a balanced, tangy, and creamy ranch dressing that’s full of savory herbs and subtle spices, perfect for salads, dips, or drizzling over your favorite dishes.

Hidden valley buttermilk ranch recipe tips and tricks 

Here are some tips for making your Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch recipe:

– Vegan Substitutions: For a dairy-free version, use vegan sour cream, vegan buttermilk (made by mixing plant-based milk with lemon juice or vinegar), and vegan mayonnaise to maintain that creamy, tangy flavor.

– Herb Variations: If you prefer fresh herbs over dried, you can substitute them for a more vibrant flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.

For converting dried herbs to fresh herbs in this Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch recipe, use the following general guideline:

• 1 teaspoon dried herbs = 3 teaspoons (or 1 tablespoon) fresh herbs

So, for this recipe that means:

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon fresh parsley.
• ½ teaspoon dried dill, you can substitute with 1½ teaspoons fresh dill.
• ¼ teaspoon dried chives, you can substitute with ¾ teaspoon fresh chives.

This conversion helps ensure that the fresh herbs provide a similar intensity of flavor to the dried herbs used in the recipe.

– Lighten It Up: For a lighter version of the dressing, replace the sour cream or mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This will reduce the fat content while still keeping the dressing creamy.

– DIY Buttermilk: Make your own buttermilk substitute by combining 1 cup of plant-based milk (or any milk of your choice) with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens, then use it in your recipe.

Hidden Valley Buttermilk ranch recipe

This Copycat Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch recipe delivers the classic, creamy, and tangy flavor you love with simple ingredients right from your kitchen. Whether you’re using it as a dip for veggies or a dressing for salads, this homemade version is incredibly easy to make and packed with fresh herbs and spices. Plus, you can customize the consistency and flavor to your liking, ensuring a perfect ranch dressing every time!

Dressing ingredients 

• ½ cup (120g) sour cream – Vegan option: use vegan sour cream 
• ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk – vegan option: use vegan buttermilk 
• ¼ cup (60g) mayonnaise (best quality such as Hellmann’s or Duke’s) – vegan option: use vegan mayonnaise 
• 2-3 teaspoons lemon juice 

Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (0.5g)
• ½ teaspoon dried dill (0.2g)
• ¼ teaspoon dried chives (0.1g) or ½ teaspoon (1g) finely chopped fresh chives
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder (3g)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder (2.4g)
• ½ teaspoon sea salt (3g)
• ⅛ teaspoon ground pepper (0.25g)

How to make the best ranch dressing 

How to Make Copycat Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

• In a medium bowl, mix together all of the seasoning ingredients until well combined.
• Gradually whisk in the sour cream and mayonnaise, making sure everything is smoothly incorporated. 
• Slowly add the milk, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
• Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, adjusting the amount to your taste preference.

Restaurant style ranch dressing variations and substitutions 

Here are some delicious variations, substitutions, and extra add-in ideas to customize your Copycat Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing recipe:

Variations:

1. Spicy Ranch Dressing:

   – Add ½ to 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.

   – You can also add finely chopped pickled jalapeños for extra heat.

2. Herbed Ranch:

   – Enhance the herb flavors by adding 1 teaspoon of fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or tarragon. These herbs will add a garden-fresh taste.

   – Substitute dried herbs with fresh ones for a more vibrant flavor (use three times the amount of fresh herbs).

3. Avocado Ranch:

   – Blend in half a ripe avocado to make the dressing thicker and creamier with a subtle, fresh avocado flavor.

4. Greek Yogurt Ranch:

   – For a lighter, tangier option, replace sour cream with Greek yogurt. This adds protein and keeps the dressing creamy with a slight tang.

   – Vegan option: use unsweetened coconut or almond yogurt.

5. Smoky Ranch:

   – Add ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, perfect for BBQs or grilled vegetables.

Substitutions:

1. Dairy-Free Buttermilk:

   – Create a dairy-free buttermilk by mixing ½ cup of unsweetened almond or soy milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken before adding it to the dressing.

2. Tahini or Cashew Cream:

   – For a nutty or extra-creamy twist, swap out the mayonnaise for ¼ cup of tahini or blended cashew cream. This adds a rich, nutty flavor and works well for vegan versions.

3. Low-Fat Option:

   – Swap full-fat sour cream with low-fat or fat-free sour cream or Greek yogurt. This lightens up the dressing without losing the creaminess.

   – Vegan option: use low-fat vegan sour cream or yogurt.

4. Coconut Milk:

   – For a tropical, slightly sweet version, use full-fat canned coconut milk instead of buttermilk. This will also make the dressing thicker and creamier.

Extra Add-In Ideas:

1. Grated Parmesan:

   – Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese for extra savory, umami flavor. Vegan option: use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

2. Finely Chopped Veggies:

   – Add texture by mixing in finely chopped cucumbers, carrots, or bell peppers. This gives a crunchy, fresh element to the dressing, making it great as a dip.

3. Pickle Juice:

   – Add 1-2 teaspoons of dill pickle juice for a tangy, briny flavor boost. This pairs well with the herbs and adds a bit of zest.

4. Chopped Green Onions:

   – For extra onion flavor, mix in 1-2 tablespoons of finely chopped green onions or scallions. They add freshness and a slight bite.

5. Lemon Zest:

   – Enhance the citrus notes by adding ½ teaspoon of freshly grated lemon zest. This brightens the dressing and adds a refreshing flavor.

These ideas allow you to tailor the dressing to your taste and preferences, whether you’re making it spicier, creamier, or even lighter. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations!

What to eat with hidden valley ranch dressing 

Here are some delicious vegetarian options to pair with Hidden Valley Ranch dressing:

1. Fresh Vegetables

– Carrot sticks, celery, cucumber slices, bell peppers: Classic crunchy veggies like these are perfect for dipping in creamy ranch dressing.

– Broccoli or cauliflower florets: Raw or lightly steamed, these veggies pair well with the tangy ranch flavor.

– Cherry tomatoes: Their juicy sweetness is balanced nicely with the creamy ranch.

2. Roasted Vegetables

– Tasty Roasted sweet potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts: The sweetness of roasted veggies contrasts perfectly with the cool, tangy ranch.

– Roasted or grilled zucchini and squash: Their mild flavors are elevated when paired with ranch as a dipping sauce.

3. Veggie Fries

– Zucchini fries or sweet potato fries: Baked or air-fried veggie fries with a side of ranch are a great healthy snack or side dish.

– Cauliflower bites: Try ranch as a dip for roasted or air-fried cauliflower bites, either plain or seasoned.

4. Salads

– Mixed green salad: Use ranch as a creamy dressing for a simple salad with lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and other favorite veggies.

– Chopped kale or spinach salad: The ranch dressing helps soften the toughness of kale or spinach, making a hearty and satisfying salad.

5. Veggie Wraps

– Lettuce wraps: Fill lettuce leaves with grilled or roasted vegetables, avocado, and a drizzle of ranch for a refreshing, low-carb option.

– Vegetarian tortilla wraps: Load a tortilla with grilled veggies, avocado, and beans, then add ranch dressing for a creamy touch.

6. Veggie Pizza

– Ranch drizzle on vegetarian pizza: Add a drizzle of ranch over veggie-loaded pizza, like one topped with mushrooms, onions, peppers, and spinach.

More serving ideas

7. Baked Potatoes

– Loaded baked potatoes: Top a baked potato with sour cream, cheese, and scallions, then drizzle with ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor.

– Baked potato wedges: Serve ranch as a dipping sauce for crispy baked potato wedges.

8. Grilled Cheese

– Ranch on the side: Use ranch as a dip for your favorite grilled cheese sandwich. It’s a delicious contrast to the melted cheese and crispy bread.

9. Avocado Toast

– Ranch drizzle: Add a light drizzle of ranch dressing over avocado toast for an extra creamy and tangy boost of flavor.

10. Veggie Burgers

– Ranch as a burger sauce: Use ranch as a topping for a plant-based veggie burger made with ingredients like black beans, chickpeas, or lentils.

These vegetarian-friendly options showcase how versatile ranch dressing can be, whether you’re using it as a dip, dressing, or sauce for all your favorite veggie-based dishes.

What I’ve been making lately

• Thai Pawpaw salad recipe: Easy Green Papaya Salad
• Homemade Claussen pickle recipe: Easy Copycat Pickles
• Vegetable Escabeche Recipe: Mexican Pickled Vegetables (Easy & Authentic)
• Avocado dessert (Filipino avocado Con Yelo recipe)
• Hidden valley buttermilk ranch recipe: best dressing

Ranch hidden valley recipe Tips

Storage tips

Serving ideas

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• Salsa dip
• Easy yeastless naan bread
• Vegan brisket 
• Easy vegan beer roast 
• Maple sesame roast potatoes 
• Hasselback Sweet potatoes 

Pasta recipes you might like

• Vegan Avocado pasta
• Vegan pasta with breadcrumbs
• Italian Lemon Pasta
• Pasta Alla Norma
• Easy red wine pasta sauce recipe

More recipes you might enjoy

• Best vegetable Indian curry
• Brinjal Curry recipe (vegan)
• Delicious Green Thai curry recipe
• Easy vegan chickpea curry
• Coconut chickpea lemon curry

Copycat Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch recipe

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This Copycat Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch recipe delivers the classic, creamy, and tangy flavor you love with simple ingredients right from your kitchen. Whether you're using it as a dip for veggies or a dressing for salads, this homemade version is incredibly easy to make and packed with fresh herbs and spices. Plus, you can customize the consistency and flavor to your liking, ensuring a perfect ranch dressing every time!

Munchyesta.com

Prep Time 7 minutes minutes

Ingredients

Dressing ingredients

• ½ cup (120g) sour cream – Vegan option: use vegan sour cream
• ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk – vegan option: use vegan buttermilk
• ¼ cup (60g) mayonnaise – (best quality such as Hellmann’s or Duke’s) – vegan option: use vegan mayonnaise
• 2-3 teaspoons lemon juice

Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon (0.5g) dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon (0.2g) dried dill
• ¼ teaspoon (0.1g) dried chives – or ½ teaspoon (1g) finely chopped fresh chives
• 1 1/2 teaspoons (3g) garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon (2.4g) onion powder
• ½ teaspoon (3g) sea salt
• ⅛ teaspoon (0.25g) ground pepper

Instructions

How to Make Copycat Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

• In a medium bowl, mix together all of the seasoning ingredients until well combined.
• Gradually whisk in the sour cream and mayonnaise, making sure everything is smoothly incorporated.
• Slowly add the milk, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
• Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, adjusting the amount to your taste preference.

Notes

Storage Tips:

– Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 10 days.

Serving size: 2 tablespoons 

Calories per serving: 71

Adjusting consistency:

• To thicken: Add more sour cream or mayonnaise to make it creamier and thicker.

• To thin out: Add more buttermilk, regular milk, or water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

How to use fresh herbs instead of dried:

Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor. Generally, you’ll want to use 3 times the amount of fresh herbs as dried. For example:

•1 teaspoon dried parsley = 1 tablespoon fresh parsley

•½ teaspoon dried dill = 1½ teaspoons fresh dill

To make a lighter version of this ranch dressing, you can:

•Use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of full-fat sour cream.

•Replace the mayonnaise with a lighter option like Greek yogurt or a low-fat vegan mayo.

Vegan substitutions:

You can make this dressing dairy-free or vegan by substituting the dairy ingredients:

•Sour cream: Use vegan sour cream made from coconut, soy, or almond milk.

•Buttermilk: Make vegan buttermilk by mixing ½ cup of plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk) with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to curdle before using.

•Mayonnaise: Use vegan mayonnaise, like Hellman’s vegan mayonnaise, or a homemade mayo which is usually made from oil and plant-based ingredients like soy or aquafaba. 

Serving with ranch dressing ideas:

Ranch dressing is versatile and can be served as a:

•Dip for fresh veggies, chips, or fries.

•Salad dressing for green salads or pasta salads.

•Sauce for veggie burgers, wraps, or roasted vegetables.

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