Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chipotle Ranch Dressing is a smoky, creamy blend that brings a bold twist to classic ranch. With the heat of chipotle peppers and the tang of buttermilk, this dressing is perfect for salads, dipping veggies, or drizzling over tacos. It’s a quick and flavorful way to upgrade your favorite dishes.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
mayonnaisebuttermilkchipotle peppers in adobo saucegarlic powderonion powderdried dilldried parsleyblack pepperlemon or lime juice (optional)salt
directions
Add the mayonnaise and buttermilk to a blender or food processor.
Add chipotle peppers (start with one and adjust for heat), garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning or spice level as needed.
If the dressing is too thick, add a bit more buttermilk to reach desired consistency.
Optional: add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice for extra tang.
Transfer to a jar or airtight container and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 1 ½ cups of dressing.Preparation time: 5 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes
Variations
Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Add fresh cilantro for an herbaceous twist.
Include a touch of honey for subtle sweetness.
Blend in avocado for a creamier, richer dressing.
Swap buttermilk for sour cream for a thicker consistency.
storage/reheating
Store Chipotle Ranch Dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.Shake or stir well before each use.Do not freeze, as the dressing may separate or lose texture.
FAQs
How spicy is this dressing?
The heat level depends on how many chipotle peppers you use. Start with one and add more to taste.
Can I make it without a blender?
Yes, finely chop the chipotle peppers and whisk all ingredients together.
Is this dressing gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all individual ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely, use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use a plant-based milk and vegan mayo to make it dairy-free.
Does it work as a dip?
Yes, reduce the buttermilk slightly for a thicker dip consistency.
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Buttermilk gives it the tangy flavor, but you can substitute with milk mixed with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar.
How long will it last?
Up to one week refrigerated in a sealed container.
Can I freeze the dressing?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
Is it good on tacos?
Yes, it’s excellent as a taco topping or drizzled over grilled meats.
Conclusion
Chipotle Ranch Dressing is the ideal condiment for those who love a smoky, spicy kick in a creamy base. Whether you’re dressing a salad, dipping veggies, or livening up a sandwich, this easy-to-make dressing adds a punch of flavor that’s hard to beat. Make a batch and see how versatile and delicious it can be!
Print
Chipotle Ranch Dressing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: About 1 ½ cups
- Category: Dressing & Dip
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, tangy dressing with a smoky kick, combining the flavors of ranch with chipotle peppers for a spicy twist.
Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried dill
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp fresh lime juice (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk until smooth.
- Add finely chopped chipotle peppers and adobo sauce; stir to combine.
- Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried parsley, cumin, and paprika.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice (if using); whisk until well blended.
- Taste and adjust chipotle level or seasoning as desired.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, stir well and thin with a little buttermilk or water if you prefer a pourable consistency.
Notes
- For extra heat, add another chipotle pepper or a dash of cayenne.
- This dressing keeps in the fridge for up to 1 week in a sealed container.
- If you don’t have buttermilk, substitute with equal parts milk + 1 tsp white vinegar, let sit 5 minutes.
- Great as a dip for vegetables or wings, or as a salad dressing.