Outback Steakhouse Ranch Dressing
Outback Steakhouse's ranch dressing stands out from the typical bottled versions with its extra-creamy texture and bold herb flavor. This homemade copycat captures that restaurant-quality taste using real buttermilk, fresh garlic, and a careful blend of dried herbs including dill, parsley, and chives. The secret is using both mayonnaise and sour cream for richness, plus a touch of white vinegar for brightness that cuts through the creaminess. Fresh herbs elevate this beyond ordinary ranch, while garlic and onion powder provide deep savory notes. Use it as a salad dressing, dipping sauce for their famous Bloomin' Onion petals, or spread for wraps and sandwiches. Unlike store-bought versions loaded with preservatives and artificial flavors, this fresh ranch lasts up to two weeks refrigerated and tastes like it was just made moments ago. The creamy texture is perfect for coating crisp lettuce or drizzling over loaded potato skins. Make a double batch on Sunday for the whole week ahead.
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Ingredients
- •Mayonnaise - 1 cup
- •Buttermilk - 1/2 cup
- •Sour cream - 1/4 cup
- •Dried dill - 1 teaspoon
- •Dried parsley - 1 teaspoon
- •Garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon
- •Onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon
- •Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
- •Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, buttermilk, and sour cream. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- 2
Add all the dried herbs and spices: dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
- 3
Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the dressing is smooth with no lumps.
- 4
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the dried herbs to rehydrate and flavors to blend.
- 5
Stir well before serving. The dressing will thicken slightly as it sits. Add more buttermilk if you prefer it thinner.
Tips & Variations
Pro Tips
- • Taste and adjust seasoning as you go
- • Use room temperature ingredients for best emulsification
- • Let flavors meld by refrigerating 30 minutes before serving
Storage
- • Refrigerator: Up to 1 week in airtight container
- • Freezer: Up to 3 months (thaw overnight)
Variations
Make it spicier with cayenne, tangier with extra lemon, or creamier with more mayo. Customize to your taste!
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