How To Make Dairy Free Ranch Seasoning From Scratch

Dairy free ranch seasoning sounds simple, but finding one that actually works as a packet substitute in real recipes took me longer than I'd like to admit. Every store-bought option I picked up had dairy in it, so I finally made my own, tested it in the recipes that sent me searching in the first place, and now it lives permanently in my spice cabinet.

Five minutes, and you've got a mix that works anywhere a ranch packet does.

The dry mix is where the real flexibility is. Use it straight from the jar in any recipe that calls for a ranch seasoning packet, or stir it into mayo and dairy free sour cream when you want a creamy dressing. I thin mine out with a little unsweetened plain almond milk until it's pourable, and it's so good on salads, as a dip, or drizzled over roasted vegetables. If you're cooking low FODMAP, this one's safe to keep on hand and reach for whenever a recipe needs it.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Five minute prep. Measure, shake, done.
• No dairy, no buttermilk powder, no guessing.
• Works as a dry spice mix OR a creamy ranch dressing.
• Low FODMAP and naturally gluten free.
• Pantry staples only - nothing hard to find.

What You'll Need

Only the ingredients worth noting are listed here. See the recipe card for exact measurements and complete instructions.

• Dried Dill - This is what makes ranch taste like ranch. Do not skip it.
• Freeze-Dried Chives - These have a more concentrated flavor than dried chives. Worth keeping a jar in the pantry.
• Dried Parsley - Adds a bit of fresh herb flavor and helps round out the mix.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper - Season and balance everything.

For the Dressing: 

• Mayonnaise - Use your favorite brand. Check the label if dairy free is a must, as most mayo is already dairy free.
• Dairy Free Sour Cream - Adds that classic creamy tang you expect from ranch. Kite Hill and Forager are both great options.
• Fresh Lemon Juice - Adds brightness. Fresh is better here.
• Green Onion Tops - Use only the green tops to keep this low FODMAP.
• Unsweetened Almond Milk - Add a splash at a time to thin the dressing to the right consistency.

See the recipe card for the exact measurements and complete instructions.

Selected ingredients are based on guidance on current serving sizes measured by the Monash University Food App and FODMAP Friendly App at the time of publishing. As always, follow your gut and modify as needed.

Step-By-Step Instructions

To Make the Dry Seasoning Mix:

Step 1: Measure each spice and add them to an airtight container or small jar. A funnel makes this less messy - highly recommend!

Step 2: Cover and shake until fully combined. That is it. Store in a cool, dry, dark place.

To Make Ranch Dressing:

Step 1: Add the mayonnaise, dairy free sour cream, lemon juice, and chopped green onion tops to a bowl.

Step 2: Add the dry seasoning mix and stir until fully combined.

Step 3: Add unsweetened almond milk one teaspoon at a time, stirring between each addition, until the dressing reaches a pourable consistency. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

Ways To Use Dairy Free Ranch Seasoning

This mix is so much more than just a dressing base. Here are some ways we use it constantly:

• Sprinkle it on roasted potatoes or veggies before baking.
• Toss it with popcorn for a snack the whole family will fight over.
• Use it to season chicken breasts before baking. My baked caesar chicken is proof that a simple seasoning can completely change a weeknight chicken dinner.
• Stir into cottage cheese for a quick veggie dip.
• Mix into ground beef for a ranch-seasoned burger.

If you love a good ranch-style dip, my low FODMAP vegetable dip is another easy option for snack boards and after-school situations. Looking for even more dressings and sauce recipes? There are plenty of homemade options to explore!

Ingredient Swaps

Freeze-Dried Chives vs. Dried Chives - Dried chives will work in a pinch. Use the same amount. Just know the flavor is a little milder.

Dairy Free Sour Cream - If you cannot find dairy free sour cream, use all mayonnaise for the dressing. It will be a bit richer but still really good.

Almond Milk - Any unsweetened, unflavored dairy free milk will work to thin the dressing. Oat milk, coconut milk beverage, or lactose-free milk if dairy is not the issue.

Variations

Spicy Ranch: Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the dry mix. Great for chips and chicken wings.

Herb Ranch: Double the dried dill for a more pronounced herb flavor.

Ranch Dip: Skip the almond milk entirely and use the dressing recipe as a thick dip for veggies, chips, or pizza.

Low FODMAP Ranch Dressing: This recipe is already set up for a low FODMAP lifestyle. Use only the green tops of green onions and verify your mayo and dairy free sour cream brands do not contain high FODMAP ingredients.

Storing

Dry Seasoning Mix: Keep in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place - like a spice drawer or pantry cabinet. It will last up to one year. Label the jar with the date so you are not playing mystery spice later.

Ranch Dressing: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Give it a good stir before using since it can separate slightly.

Freezing: The dry mix does not need freezing. The dressing does not freeze well - the texture will change.

Recipes That Use Ranch Seasoning Mix

• Low FODMAP Mexican Lasagna - Brings a great flavor to this layered lasagna dish.
• Low FODMAP Taco Soup - Such a great way to flavor this slow cooker soup.
• Mississippi Pot Roast - Shredded pot roast flavored with pepperoncinis and butter. It is not your Grandma's pot roast!
• Mexi-Ranch Dressing - A delicious topping for quesadilla burgers or a taco salad.

FAQs

More Loveable Seasoning Mixes

• Homemade Low FODMAP Taco Seasoning
• Bloody Mary Seasoning