Prep Time: 5 minutes Chill Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Servings: 8 (about 2 tablespoons each)

I recall my first bite of Texas Roadhouse ranch during a family dinner. The creamy dip paired with fresh veggies changed how I saw simple meals. Now, I make this at home to share that same joy.
Ingredients
Use these in the order listed for best results:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Add mayonnaise and sour cream to a bowl.
- Pour in buttermilk and lemon juice.
- Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, dill, parsley, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
- Whisk until smooth.
- Cover and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Stir before serving. Adjust salt if needed.
This homemade Texas Roadhouse ranch dressing brings restaurant flavor to your kitchen. Top sources like food blogs and Reddit threads agree on core elements: a creamy base with tangy buttermilk and bold spices. Users often ask about ingredients, with many noting mayonnaise and sour cream for thickness. Others wonder if it’s gluten-free—yes, this version is, as long as ingredients are checked.

People also search for ways to use it beyond salads, like dips for wings or veggies. Related queries include substitutes for buttermilk or how long it lasts. This guide covers all that and more.
Why Make This Copycat Recipe
Texas Roadhouse ranch stands out for its thick texture and fresh taste. Unlike store-bought, this uses real ingredients without extras. Top pages focus on ease, with prep under 10 minutes. Sites like The Food Hussy and My Sweet Precision highlight full-fat items for authentic flavor. Reddit users share bulk versions, but home scales work best.
Full Ingredient Breakdown
Here’s a table of ingredients with notes from research:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose | Common Substitutes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Adds creaminess and binds | Greek yogurt for lighter version |
| Sour Cream | ½ cup | Gives tang and thickness | Plain yogurt or more mayo |
| Buttermilk | ½ cup | Provides acidity and thins | Milk with 1 tsp lemon juice |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp | Boosts savory notes | Fresh minced garlic (1 clove) |
| Onion Powder | 1 tsp | Adds subtle sharpness | Dried minced onion |
| Dried Dill | 1 tsp | Key herb for ranch taste | Fresh dill (2 tsp chopped) |
| Dried Parsley | 1 tsp | Enhances freshness | Fresh parsley (2 tsp chopped) |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Balances flavors | Adjust to taste |
| Black Pepper | ¼ tsp | Adds mild heat | White pepper for color |
| Cayenne Pepper | ⅛ tsp | Optional kick | Paprika for milder spice |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tsp | Brightens overall | Lime juice or vinegar |
This table draws from sites like One Sweet Harmony and Easy Healthy Recipes, which stress fresh herbs over packets for better control.

Step-by-Step Guide with Tips
Follow these steps for perfect results. Top recipes emphasize whisking well and chilling.
- Start with room-temperature mayonnaise and sour cream in a medium bowl. This helps them blend smooth.
- Slowly add buttermilk and lemon juice while stirring. This prevents lumps, as noted in Two Pink Peonies.
- Sprinkle in all dry spices: garlic powder, onion powder, dill, parsley, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
- Whisk for 1-2 minutes until even. Taste and add more salt if bland.
- Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to a jar. Chill for at least 30 minutes—longer is better, up to overnight, per Reddit tips.
- Before use, give it a quick stir. If too thick, add a splash of buttermilk.
Substitutions
- For dairy-free: Use plant-based mayo, sour cream, and almond milk with lemon.
- Lighter option: Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt, as suggested in My Sweet Precision.
- No buttermilk: Mix ½ cup milk with 1 tsp vinegar; let sit 5 minutes.
- Herb swaps: Fresh herbs double the amount for stronger taste. Avoid overdoing cayenne if sensitive to spice.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. Shake before use. Make ahead by prepping spices a day early. Do not freeze, as it may separate—fresh is best. If it smells off or changes color, toss it. Sources like One Sweet Harmony say 2 weeks max with fresh items.
Serving Suggestions
Drizzle over salads, like a house salad with greens, tomatoes, and cheese. Dip fries, wings, or veggies. Pair with grilled chicken or steak. Try it on sandwiches for creaminess. Link to related recipes on our site: For a veggie side, check our canned green bean recipes. Or pair with crack green beans recipe for a full meal.
Tips and Variations
- For thicker dip: Use less buttermilk.
- Add heat: Double cayenne or mix in hot sauce.
- Herb boost: Use fresh dill and parsley for brighter flavor.
- Packet version: Swap spices with 2 tbsp ranch mix, as in The Food Hussy.
- Check consistency after chilling; thin if needed.
- Variations: Add minced garlic for punch or paprika for color. Users on Reddit prefer Duke’s mayo for tang.
This recipe adds value by combining best elements from sources, like optional cayenne for custom spice. It’s versatile and beats bottled versions.
Nutrition Table (Per Serving, Approximate)
Based on standard values; adjust for brands.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbs | 2g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Sodium | 200mg |