The 5-Minute Ranch Dip My Family Can’t Stop Eating

There was always a bottle of ranch dressing in the fridge when I was growing up. I really didn’t venture into the world of vinegar-based salad dressings until my later years because, as a kid and then as a teenager, ranch was all my heart desired. 

Now that I’m a mom of five lovely girls, I can see why. It pairs with anything and has this magical way of getting my girls (especially my seven-year-old twins) to eat their veggies. Our love for ranch doesn’t just stop with veggies, though. We love it with chicken nuggets, chicken wraps, pizza, and salty potato chips.

Just like in my mama’s kitchen, I will always have a bottle of ranch in the fridge. But there’s just something special about making a zesty ranch dip from scratch. It’s a bit thicker than bottled ranch, has a tang that hits just right, and I love that you can make it completely your own. 

I will warn you: It’s dangerous to have around the house because you won’t be able to stop eating it! My kids will literally down my ranch dip, which means it’s a clear winner—I know that you’ll feel the same way. It only takes about five minutes to whip up, making it perfect for those last-minute summer gatherings, tailgating parties, or a midnight snack.

Easy Ranch Dip Variations

Please note that I don’t recommend using Miracle Whip instead of regular mayo. The taste just won’t be the same. You can swap out the regular mayo for light mayo if you want to.

While this is a pretty straightforward recipe, if you’re looking for a higher protein dip and aren’t a fan of mayo, swap it for cottage cheese. We have done this several times, and I love the texture the cottage cheese brings. If you don’t like Greek yogurt, you can use light or regular sour cream in its place.

If you want this to be a little runnier, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Want to really get zesty? Add some chopped parsley, or zest the lemon into the dip before you juice it. You can also add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little heat.

What To Serve With Ranch Dip

• Veggies are the obvious choice. Think cucumbers, carrots, cauliflower, celery, broccoli, radishes, sugar snap peas, and cherry tomatoes.
• I mentioned chips earlier, and Ruffles are my favorite because they’re sturdy and have ridges that capture more sauce. We have even dipped tortilla chips in this dip and the combo tastes like Cool Ranch Doritos!
• Use it as a spread for chicken wraps or on a burger.
• This dip would be fantastic with chicken wings instead of blue cheese dressing.