Blackened Ranch Dressing

We're a ranch-loving household, like, keep an emergency bottle in the fridge kind of loving. But once we tried that spicy blackened ranch from Popeyes (you know the one), it was game over. It had us rethinking plain ranch altogether. The problem is, fast food versions don't exactly scream healthy or wholesome.

So I started making this lightened-up copycat version at home, and it's become a weekly staple. It uses Greek yogurt for a creamy base, tangy buttermilk for that classic ranch vibe, and a kick of blackening seasoning for bold, smoky flavor. It's thick enough to dip but smooth enough to drizzle over anything and everything!

Before You Get Started

Here's everything you need to know about making this healthier blackened ranch dressing:

• Use full-fat or 2% Greek yogurt for extra richness. Nonfat works, but higher fat = more classic ranch flavor. For a richer flavor, swap in mayonnaise or sour cream for half of the yogurt.
• Homemade seasoning wins. Store-bought is fine, but homemade Blackening Seasoning tastes fresher and is easy to tweak.

How to Make Blackened Ranch Dressing

This ranch dressing recipe is super easy to make at home and tastes just like the restaurant version!

1. Mix All Ingredients

Stir together Greek yogurt, buttermilk, blackening seasoning, dried herbs, lemon juice, and salt and pepper.

2. Chill for at Least 1 Hour

This helps the flavors meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips for Making the Best Homemade Ranch

I've been making homemade ranch for several years now, and I've picked up a few tricks and tips along the way that you might find incredibly useful. So here are a few of my best tips to help you get the best-tasting ranch ever:

• Adjust your seasonings. The beautiful thing about making your own blackening seasoning at home is that you can adjust the seasonings to suit your flavor preferences. Make it spicier, less spicy, less salty, saltier, etc. It's up to you!
• Play around with ratios. If you're looking for ways to make it richer or keto-friendly, swap the nonfat Greek yogurt for 2% fat or full-fat Greek yogurt. I've even had a few friends prepare it with plain regular yogurt, and it was just as good. If you're after a thinner consistency, simply add more buttermilk or thin it out with a little water if needed.
• Chill it. Although you can serve this right away, chilling the ranch in the fridge for an hour or up to overnight will let the flavors come together for an even more delicious dressing. If you have the time, it's definitely worth it!
• Add some heat. I love my ranch dressings with a little heat from time to time. You can add a little spice to this recipe by mixing in some cayenne pepper or Hungarian (hot) paprika.

What to Serve With Blackened Ranch Dressing

When it comes to what to serve with ranch, the options are nearly endless. You can serve this blackened ranch with any foods you would serve with traditional ranch dressing. If you're looking for some ideas, here are a few foods that pair incredibly well with blackened ranch dressing:

• Chicken tenders (paleo-friendly!)
• Pasta salads
• Raw vegetables (like carrots, celery, and broccoli)
• Breadsticks
• Buddha Bowls
• Pizza
• Sandwiches and wraps

How to Store Ranch Dressing

Here’s how to keep homemade ranch dressing fresh for days!

• Fridge: I like to store my ranch in an airtight container or an airtight jar. When stored properly, homemade ranch dressing will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 7-10 days.
• Freezer: Because it's made with dairy ingredients, I don't recommend storing ranch dressing in the freezer.

Note: Dairy tends to separate when frozen, which means you would likely end up with clumpy dressing after thawing it out. Luckily, this ranch dressing recipe is super easy to whip up again whenever you're in the mood!