Get into a bit of a spicy pickle with this twist on classic ranch dressing. The pieces of pickled jalapenos and a splash of fresh juice make this creamy jalapeno ranch dressing a whole new ballgame that is sure to perk up any salad or dip.
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What makes this Jalapeno Ranch Dressing the perfect addition to your game day meal?
Homemade jalapeño ranch dressing will take your game day snacking up a notch. This recipe's stats include an extra thick and creamy consistency with a distinctive tang and enough heat to get noticed. Be sure to make enough because it is guaranteed to be a top pick for all your guests.
Why you'll love this jalapeno ranch recipe
Quick and easy jalapeno ranch salad dressing turns a simple salad into something that is amazingly addictive that even non-salad eaters will love. But it's much more versatile than that. The dressing works as a dip and sauce as well.
Check out the section below for suggestions on how you can customize homemade Jalapeno Ranch Dressing to match your personal taste.
Jalapeno Ranch Dressing ingredients
To make this Jalapeno Ranch Dressing recipe, you'll need:
- Pickled jalapeno peppers
- Sour cream
- Mayonnaise
- Dry ranch dressing mix
- Fresh lime juice
Ingredient notes
Sometimes, sliced pickled jalapeno peppers are branded as "nacho jalapenos." Trippy's Sliced Jalapeno Peppers is a good choice.
Bottled lime juice isn't going to cut it in this recipe. For the most flavor, you need to use freshly squeezed lime juice. So, why not pick up a few extra so you'll have plenty on hand for a pitcher of margaritas?
Look for a dry ranch dressing packet that doesn't require adding buttermilk, like Hidden Valley Original Ranch Salad Dressing and Seasoning Mix.
How to make Jalapeno Ranch Dressing
To prepare the best Jalapeno Ranch Dressing:
- Finely chop the pickled jalapeno peppers and put them in the jar of the blender.
- Add the sour cream and mayonnaise to the blender.
- Sprinkle in the dry ranch dressing mix, being careful not to get any on the walls of the jar.
- Squeeze the lime over the top.
- Pulse a few times. You want to mix the ingredients thoroughly and dissolve the ranch mix without turning the pickled jalapenos into juice.
- Transfer the dressing to an airtight container, cover, and chill for an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Possible recipe variations
There are a ton of options when it comes to customizing this dressing recipe. Here are a few that work well. Why not add your favorite variations in the comment section below?
- Fresh cilantro. If you are someone who loves cilantro, and let's face it, either you love it or hate it, try mixing in a tablespoon or two of fresh chopped cilantro after blending the dressing.
- Greek yogurt. Go healthier by replacing all or some of the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a tangy, refreshing alternative.
- Taco seasoning. Add a few pinches of taco seasoning for a south-of-the-border flavor.
- Avocado Jalapeno Ranch Dressing. Use an equal amount of mashed ripe avocado to replace the mayo. If you use avocado, you'll need to place a piece of plastic directly on top of the dressing to prevent it from discoloring.
How to use and serve it
From topping a salad to marinating chicken for the grill, this dressing can do it all. Here are a few ways you can use it:
- Top with a chopped salad. A chopped salad with Jalapeno Ranch Dressing is something you can throw together in minutes. But it doesn't have to be basic. Try incorporating quinoa, edamame, or wanton strips for something a bit different.
- Dip it. Whether you are dunking veggies, fried mushrooms, onion rings, French fries, or chicken wings, you won't be disappointed by how this creamy dressing with a kick amps up the flavor in each bite.
- Drizzle it on your favorite food. Easy jalapeno ranch salad dressing can take the place of mayo or sour cream on your favorite food. Squirt it on tacos, spread it on burgers, or spoon it over roast vegetables to take your taste buds in a new direction.
How to store it
You should keep any extra dressing in an airtight container. Try to size the container to the amount of dressing you have left to eliminate excess air. The longer you store it in the fridge, the spicier it will get.
How long will this homemade Jalapeno Ranch Dressing last?
Expect the dressing to stay good for about a week in the fridge. Make sure to taste the dressing before eating since it can go off quickly depending on any add-ins you use.
More recipes with a kick of heat
- Buffalo Chicken Ring
- Firecracker Meatballs
- Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball
- Smoked Jalapeno Poppers
- Spicy Chex Mix
Jalapeno Ranch Dressing
Ingredients
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 5 tablespoons dry ranch dressing mix
- ½ cup pickled jalapeño peppers
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
Instructions
- Place all the ingredients into a blender and pulse 7 or 8 times.
- Transfer the dressing to a bowl and serve.
Sam says
Made this as a veggie dip, it was so good!