Homemade Ranch Seasoning Recipe

Many years ago, when first trying the plethora of recipes that were suddenly becoming available online, I discovered that some of these recipes called for something known as "Ranch seasoning."

As a Canadian, I was super confused, because I had never seen such an ingredient in my life! But after asking my in-laws to pick up a few packets on their cross-border shopping trip, I knew that I needed to find a way to make my own!

I've tweaked this recipe over many years, and still use it to this day. Yes, even now that Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning packets are available at most grocery stores.

Even though I still love using a convenient packet every now and then, making my own is an economical (and healthy) way to get the same flavor.

Ingredients

• Dry buttermilk powder: This looks very similar to powdered milk, but has a bright and tangy flavor. Powdered buttermilk is not commonly found at grocery stores, but it is easy to purchase on Amazon. I have had occasional luck with finding it in the bulk bins.
• Dried herbs: Parsley, dill, and chives are used. If you can find freeze dried, those are the closest to fresh herbs (in my opinion).
• Garlic and onion: You'll need garlic powder, onion powder, and dried minced onion. The dried onion is an essential element for the texture, so even it if seems redundant to use both dried onion and onion powder, it's important to the end result.
• Salt: You may want to add a little more to your taste, especially if you're trying to make it just like the packaged version. The store-bought packets have MSG, which is what gives it that super salty and savory flavor.
• Ground black pepper: I like to use pre-ground, but you can use freshly ground if you prefer.
• Cornstarch: This can be found in the baking aisle of any grocery store, and helps to thicken any liquids you mix it with.
• Sugar (optional): Adds a touch of sweetness, balancing out the other flavors. Feel free to leave it out.
• Mustard powder (optional): Also known as dry mustard, this can be found with the spices and is an optional ingredient.

Storage Tips

This dry ranch dressing mix is perfect for making in large batches for keeping on hand in your pantry, or gifting to friends and family.

Gifting: One of my favorite ways to package it as a gift is by transferring it to pretty mason jars. I like to include a small card tied on with a decorative string. On the card I list the ingredients and measurements (so they can make their own when they run out), as well as the conversion (3 tablespoons = 1 packet). If I have enough room, I may write a quick recipe for making ranch dressing or ranch dip.

Storing: Keep your dry ranch seasoning mix in a cool, dark place like a spice cabinet or pantry cupboard. It should store well for up to 3 months (maybe longer, if your ingredients are very fresh). To prevent clumping, store in a low humidity area, or place 1 teaspoon of dry rice in the bottom of the jar.

Homemade vs. Store-bought Packets

Homemade: This is a bit more herby, and has more textured bits. Some cornstarch is included for thickening, but it doesn't thicken as much as the store-bought seasoning does (which uses corn maltodextrin). It has a subtle saltiness.

Store-bought: This has added MSG (monosodium glutamate), which gives it a salty and savory flavor. It thickens much more than the homemade blend (because of the corn maltodextrin and fillers).

Different Ways to Use It

Sure, we all know you can make ranch dressing or dip, but there are many creative ways to add flavor to your favorite snacks, sides, and main dishes.

• Chicken tenders
• In dips
• Ranch Chex mix
• Ranch popcorn
• Garlic bread
• Ranch potatoes
• Ranch broccoli
• To season meats
• Ranch pretzels