Name: Chipotle Ranch Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 lime Juice from; 1 chipotle chili pepper in adobo sauce; 1 teaspoon adobo sauce ((see note)); 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 cup cilantro ((lightly packed)); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt & pepper (to taste)

If you’re on the hunt for a dressing that packs a punch, look no further! This Chipotle Ranch Dressing is the answer to all your salad dressing dreams. It combines the creamy goodness of ranch with the smoky, spicy kick of chipotle, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Whether you’re drizzling it over a fresh salad, using it as a dip for veggies, or even slathering it on a piece of grilled chicken, this dressing is sure to elevate your dining experience. Plus, it’s quick to make and requires just a few common ingredients. Let’s dive into the delightful world of chipotle ranch!

The Upside of Chipotle Ranch Dressing

Imagine a dressing that not only enhances the flavor of your meals but also brings a hint of excitement to your plate. The Chipotle Ranch Dressing is creamy, zesty, and has a smokiness that can transform even the simplest dishes. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a little heat but can easily be adjusted to suit your taste. You can whip it up in under 10 minutes, and it keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.

Ingredient List

1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1/3 cup mayonnaise
Juice from 1/2 lime
1 chipotle chili pepper in adobo sauce + 1 teaspoon adobo sauce (see note)
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup (lightly packed) cilantro
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt & pepper to taste

Cook’s Kit

Mixing Bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
Whisk: To ensure everything is well blended and creamy.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To get the proportions just right.
Storage Container: For keeping your dressing fresh in the fridge.

Cook Chipotle Ranch Dressing Like This

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by collecting all the ingredients listed above. Having everything in one place makes the process much smoother.

Step 2: Combine the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt with 1/3 cup of mayonnaise. This creamy base is what makes the dressing rich and luscious.

Step 3: Add the Zing

Squeeze in the juice from 1/2 lime. This adds a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the dressing.

Step 4: Spice it Up

Chop the chipotle chili pepper finely and add it to the bowl along with the 1 teaspoon of adobo sauce. This is where the magic happens, infusing the dressing with that smoky flavor.

Step 5: Include the Seasonings

Stir in the 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 cup of cilantro, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good mix until it’s well combined and creamy.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, let the dressing chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it over your favorite salads, or use it as a dip for veggies or chips. It’s especially delicious on a Chicken Taco Salad or as a dressing for a fresh veggie platter.

Budget & Availability Swaps

Greek Yogurt: Can be swapped with regular sour cream if unavailable.
Chipotle Chili: If you can’t find chipotle in adobo, you can use chipotle powder as a substitute, adjusting the amount to your heat preference.
Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley can be an acceptable substitute.
Worcestershire Sauce: You can use a vegan alternative if preferred.

What I Learned Testing

Balancing the heat is key. Start with less chipotle and taste as you go.
The dressing thickens as it chills, so don’t worry if it’s a bit thin right after mixing.
This dressing is incredibly versatile. It’s not just for salads; try it on grilled meats or in wraps.
Fresh lime juice makes a noticeable difference compared to bottled juice, so opt for fresh when you can.

Save It for Later

This Chipotle Ranch Dressing keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may separate slightly as it sits. It’s a great make-ahead option for busy weeks or for gatherings, ensuring you’ve got a tasty dressing on hand whenever you need it.

Common Questions

Can I make this dressing vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute the sour cream with a plant-based yogurt and use a vegan mayonnaise to create a delicious vegan version of Chipotle Ranch Dressing.

How spicy is this dressing?

The spice level can vary depending on how much chipotle you use. Start with half of a chipotle chili pepper and add more if you prefer a spicier kick!

What can I use this dressing for?

This dressing is incredibly versatile! Use it on salads, as a dip for vegetables, or even as a sauce for grilled chicken or fish. It’s also fantastic drizzled over a Mexican Bean Dip.

How long does this dressing last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it will last about a week in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may separate over time.

Explore More

Wrap-Up

This Chipotle Ranch Dressing is a game changer for your meals, adding creamy texture and a burst of flavor that is sure to please your taste buds. Easy to prepare, adaptable, and full of flavor, it’s a dressing you’ll want to keep on hand. Enjoy experimenting with it in various dishes and make it your own!