Chipotle Ranch Dressing Recipe
This easy chipotle ranch recipe is smoky, creamy, and packed with bold flavor! If you love ranch but want a little kick, this chipotle ranch salad dressing is about to become your new favorite. It’s perfect for drizzling over salads, dipping veggies, or even slathering on tacos and burgers. Best part? It’s ridiculously simple to make with just a handful of ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Smoky & Spicy – The perfect balance of creamy ranch and bold chipotle heat.
- Versatile – Use it as a dressing, dip, or sauce for just about anything.
- Quick & Easy – Made in just 5 minutes with pantry staples.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up this irresistible dressing:
- Mayonnaise – The creamy base that makes the dressing rich and smooth.
- Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and helps balance the spice.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce – The star ingredient, bringing smoky heat and deep flavor.
- Lime Juice – A touch of acidity to brighten everything up.
- Garlic Powder – A hint of garlicky goodness.
- Onion Powder – Adds depth to the flavor.
- Dried Dill – A classic ranch ingredient for a fresh, herby touch.
- Paprika – Enhances the smokiness of the chipotle.
- Salt & Pepper – For perfectly balanced seasoning.
- Milk or Buttermilk – Helps thin out the dressing to your desired consistency.
Note: The full ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card below!
How to Make Chipotle Ranch Dressing
Step 1: Blend the Ingredients
In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, chipotle peppers, lime juice, and all the seasonings. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Adjust the Consistency
If the dressing is too thick, add a little milk or buttermilk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Give it a taste and add more lime juice, salt, or chipotle if needed. Want it spicier? Throw in an extra chipotle pepper!
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Transfer the dressing to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use Fresh Lime Juice – It makes a huge difference in flavor compared to bottled juice.
- Blend Thoroughly – Ensures a smooth, creamy consistency without chunky bits of chipotle.
- Let it Chill – Resting in the fridge enhances the flavors and makes the dressing even better.
How to Serve
This chipotle ranch salad dressing isn’t just for salads! Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- As a Salad Dressing – Drizzle over mixed greens, taco salads, or grain bowls.
- As a Dip – Perfect for veggies, fries, chicken tenders, or even pizza.
- On Tacos & Burritos – Adds an incredible smoky flavor to Mexican dishes.
- Burger & Sandwich Spread – Elevates any sandwich or burger with creamy, spicy goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store the dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Stir before using, as it may separate slightly.
Freezing
Not recommended—dairy-based dressings tend to separate and lose their creamy texture when frozen.
Reheating
No need to reheat! Just take it out of the fridge, give it a stir, and enjoy.
FAQs
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute sour cream with dairy-free yogurt and use a plant-based mayo.
How can I make it spicier?
Add an extra chipotle pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper for more heat.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! It will add a slightly tangy flavor while keeping the dressing creamy.
How long does homemade chipotle ranch last?
It stays fresh for up to a week in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.
conclusion
If you’re looking to elevate your meals with bold, smoky flavors, this chipotle ranch dressing recipe is a total game-changer. It’s creamy, spicy, and so versatile—you can drizzle it over salads, use it as a dip, or spread it on your favorite sandwiches. Trust me, once you try this chipotle ranch dressing recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Plus, it pairs perfectly with all kinds of dishes, especially those with a bit of sweetness. Speaking of sweet, why not check out our delicious Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tarts? They’re the perfect homemade treat for your next brunch or snack.
So, grab those ingredients and whip up this easy chipotle ranch dressing recipe today. Your taste buds will thank you! 🌶️✨
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Chipotle Ranch Dressing Recipe: Smoky, Creamy, and Easy
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup (8 servings)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This smoky and creamy Chipotle Ranch Dressing combines the classic coolness of ranch with a spicy kick from chipotle peppers. Perfect as a salad dressing, dip, or sauce, this versatile condiment adds zest to any dish. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make at home!
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: Provides a rich, creamy base.
- Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and smooth texture.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: Imparts smoky heat and depth of flavor.
- Lime Juice: Brightens the dressing with fresh acidity.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory profile.
- Onion Powder: Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
- Dried Dill: Introduces a hint of herbal freshness.
- Paprika: Enhances color and adds mild sweetness.
- Salt & Pepper: Balances and elevates all flavors.
- Milk or Buttermilk: Adjusts the dressing to desired consistency
Instructions
- Prepare the Blender: Add mayonnaise, sour cream, and chopped chipotle peppers with adobo sauce into a blender or food processor.
- Blend Base Ingredients: Pulse the mixture until smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate Seasonings: Add lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, paprika, salt, and pepper to the blender.
- Blend Until Smooth: Process the mixture until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the dressing is smooth.
- Adjust Consistency: If the dressing is too thick, add milk or buttermilk one tablespoon at a time, blending after each addition until reaching the desired consistency.
- Taste and Season: Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.
- Chill Before Serving: Transfer the dressing to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Storage: Keep the dressing refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Spice Level: For a milder dressing, use fewer chipotle peppers; for extra heat, add more.
- Consistency: Adjust the thickness by varying the amount of milk or buttermilk.
- Alternative Ingredients: Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: condiment
- Method: blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10 g
Keywords: chipotle ranch dressing, spicy ranch, homemade dressing, salad dressing, chipotle sauce