When I’m entertaining, I offer plenty of appetizer recipes such as cranberry jalapeno dip, baked chicken wings, bacon wrapped smokies and this classic ranch dip with fresh vegetables. Ranch dip is a traditional party offering because it goes so well with veggies, chips, pretzels and bread. This homemade ranch dip avoids the store bought ranch mixes which contain lots of chemicals and preservatives, in favor of a fresher approach that’s full of flavor.
Ranch Dip Ingredients
To make this recipe, you will need sour cream as well as dry ingredients including buttermilk powder, parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, onion flakes, black pepper, chives and salt. You can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top of the dip as a garnish.
How Do You Make Ranch Dip?
Combine all of the dry ingredients together to make the ranch seasoning mix. Add three tablespoons of the ranch seasoning to sour cream, then stir to combine. Serve the dip right away, or cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and enjoy!
Tips For The Perfect Dip
Dried herbs and spices tend to lose their potency over time. Make sure your herbs and spices are no more than 6 months old for the best results. Powdered buttermilk is often sold in a tin near the other powdered milk products. It’s inexpensive and lasts a long time but the can does need to be refrigerated after it’s opened. Which means you’ll also need to refrigerate your powdered dip mix until you’re ready to use it. If you can’t find buttermilk powder, substitute 2 tablespoons of the sour cream for 2 tablespoons of buttermilk. The ranch powder will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one month in an airtight container. You can also store the prepared dip in the fridge for 3 days. Serve your dip with a variety of dippers such as cucumbers, celery, potato chips, breadsticks, pretzels, bell peppers, radishes, broccoli and carrots.
Flavor Variations
This dip is delicious as is, but you can change some of the ingredients to suit your tastes.
Herbs: You can use fresh minced herbs instead of dried herbs in your ranch dip. If you go this route, you’ll want to triple the amount of fresh herbs as compared to dried. Flavorings: Add extra flavor to your dip with seasoned salt, lemon juice, paprika, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, cooked bacon, shredded cheese or olives. Sour Cream: Swap out half of the sour cream with other ingredients such as mayonnaise (can be regular or light mayo), Greek yogurt or cream cheese.
Ranch dip is a must-have for any party. While it’s great with chips and veggies, it’s also perfect to pair with baked chicken tenders, buffalo shrimp or baked French fries. The possibilities are endless!
