This homemade ranch seasoning mix can be used to add a zesty, tangy flavor to everything from chips, dips, meats, veggies and more. Our copycat Hidden Valley Ranch Mix is a great way to save money and avoid the additives and preservatives found in store-bought versions.
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What is Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix?
Dry ranch seasoning is a blend of dried herbs and spices that is typically used to add a zesty, tangy flavor to food. The spice mix usually includes ingredients such as dried parsley, dill weed, garlic powder, onion powder, and chives. Dry ranch seasoning can be used to flavor a wide range of dishes, from snacks like popcorn and chips to meat, vegetables and dips.
Why You Should Make Your Own Ranch Seasoning
- Customization: Making your own ranch seasoning mix allows you to tailor the flavor to your preferences. You can adjust the amounts of each ingredient to make the mix more or less salty, tangy, or spicy, and you can add or omit ingredients based on your tastes.
- Quality of ingredients: Homemade seasoning mixes typically use high-quality, fresh ingredients, whereas store-bought Hidden Valley Ranch Packets may contain additives and preservatives to extend shelf life.
- Cost savings: Making your own can be more cost-effective than buying pre-packaged versions, especially if you already have the individual herbs and spices on hand.
- Sustainability: By making your own seasoning mix, you can reduce packaging waste. We store our mix in a reusable mason jar.
- Convenience: Having a batch of homemade seasoning mix on hand means you can quickly and easily add flavor to a variety of dishes. We’re talking to you, ranch lovers!
Ranch Seasoning Mix Ingredients
- Dry Buttermilk Powder: Powdered buttermilk, which is often used in ranch seasoning mix to give it a tangy flavor. While this is our key ingredient, you can actually leave this out if you prefer a dairy-free mix.
- Herbs & Spices: Our mix includes freeze dried chives, dried dill, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper.
- Umami seasoning (optional): Umami seasoning is a blend of ingredients that enhance the savory, meaty flavor of foods. This can be added to ranch seasoning mix to give it an extra boost of flavor. We use this blend to replace the MSG (monosodium glutamate) found in many store-bought packets.
How to Make Dry Ranch Seasoning
In a small bowl, mix together all of the ingredients until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or jar and store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. Done!
How to Make Ranch Salad Dressing With Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix
Making ranch dressing from your homemade ranch mix is an easy way to enjoy the classic creamy and tangy flavor of ranch dressing. To make the dressing, you’ll need some basic ingredients like mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, and of course, your homemade ranch seasoning mix.
Start by whisking together 1/2 cup mayonnaise and 1/2 cup sour cream until they are smooth and well-combined. Gradually add in 1/2 cup of milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture reaches your desired consistency.
Next, stir in 3 tablespoons of your homemade ranch seasoning mix and 1 tbsp of sugar (optional), adjusting the amount to taste. You can also add more or less milk to achieve your desired thickness. Once you have everything mixed together, cover the dressing and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
How to Make Homemade Ranch Dip With Ranch Seasoning
If you prefer a thicker and creamier ranch dip instead of a dressing start by combining 1 cup of sour cream and 1/2 cup of mayonnaise in a medium bowl. Mix well until the mixture is smooth. Add 3 tablespoons of your homemade ranch seasoning mix and stir until it is evenly distributed. You can adjust the amount of seasoning mix to your liking, depending on how strong you’d like the flavor.
As with the dressing, you should allow the dip to chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. When you’re ready to serve, give the dip a quick stir and place it in a serving bowl. You can serve it with your favorite vegetables, chips, or crackers for a delicious snack or appetizer.
Ways to Use Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix
- To season popcorn or chips: Sprinkle the seasoning mix over freshly popped popcorn or your favorite chips.
- Roasted veggies seasoning: Toss your favorite vegetables in a small amount of olive oil, then sprinkle with the seasoning mix before roasting in the oven. This pairs especially well potatoes.
- Mixed into beef for burgers or meatloaf: Mix a tablespoon or two of the spice blend into a pound of ground beef before forming into patties or shaping into a loaf.
- Sprinkled on roasted or grilled chicken: Season chicken breasts or thighs with the seasoning mix before roasting or grilling.
- Mixed into a marinade for steak or chicken: Whisk together a tablespoon or two of the seasoning mix with olive oil and vinegar or lemon juice to create a flavorful marinade.
- Make Veggie Pizza: Use this blend in the cream cheese sauce for this chilled pizza topped with fresh veggies.
Ranch Seasoning Recipe FAQs
What is buttermilk powder?
Buttermilk powder is a type of powdered milk made from the liquid that’s left behind after churning butter from cream. It has a tangy, slightly acidic flavor. Buttermilk powder can also be used as a flavoring agent in recipes, including homemade dry ranch seasoning mix, where it adds a tangy and creamy flavor similar to buttermilk. It’s a shelf-stable ingredient that can be stored at room temperature. It’s normally found in the baking aisle.
Can I make a large batch of homemade ranch seasoning mix and store it for later use?
Yes, you can! Just store the large batch in an airtight container for later use. It should last for up to six months when stored properly in a cool, dry place.
Can I adjust the amounts of the ingredients in homemade ranch seasoning mix to suit my taste preferences?
Absolutely! One of the great things about making your own seasoning mix is that you can adjust the amounts of the ingredients to your liking. For example, if you love dill, simply add more!
Is homemade ranch seasoning mix healthier than a store-bought ranch packet?
Making your own ranch seasoning mix allows you to control the ingredients that go into it, so you can avoid additives and preservatives that may be present in some store-bought versions.
Is homemade ranch seasoning mix cheaper than store-bought seasoning packets?
Yep, making your own ranch seasoning mix can be cheaper than buying a pre-made mix at the store. Plus, you can buy the ingredients in bulk and make several batches of seasoning mix, which can save you money in the long run.
Making your own homemade ranch seasoning mix is a simple and cost-effective way to add flavor to a wide variety of dishes. The versatility of this seasoning allows you to use it in everything from dips and dressings to roasted vegetables and meats, making it a pantry staple in any kitchen. With this easy recipe and simple ingredients, you can enjoy the rich and tangy flavor of ranch seasoning in your favorite dishes whenever you want!
Looking for more seasoning mixes?
Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup buttermilk powder
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 2 tsp freeze-dried chives
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp dried minced onion
- 1 tbsp dried dill
- 1 tsp umami seasoning, optional, but recommended
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the buttermilk powder, dried parsley, freeze-dried chives, garlic powder, dried minced onion, dried dill, umami seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Store the ranch seasoning mix in an airtight container such as a mason jar.
Notes
Start by whisking together 1/2 cup mayonnaise and 1/2 cup sour cream until they are smooth and well-combined. Gradually add in 1/2 cup of milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture reaches your desired consistency. Next, stir in 3 tablespoons of your homemade ranch seasoning mix and 1 tbsp of sugar (optional), adjusting the amount to taste. You can also add more or less milk to achieve your desired thickness. Once you have everything mixed together, cover the dressing and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. To Make Homemade Ranch Dip:
Start by combining 1 cup of sour cream and 1/2 cup of mayonnaise in a medium bowl. Mix well until the mixture is smooth. Add 3 tablespoons of your homemade ranch seasoning mix and stir until it is evenly distributed. You can adjust the amount of seasoning mix to your liking, depending on how strong you’d like the flavor. As with the dressing, you should allow the dip to chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. When you’re ready to serve, give the dip a quick stir and place it in a serving bowl.
