Homemade Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix

Ranch seasoning is a pantry staple, but now thanks to this Homemade Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix (that’s like a copycat Hidden Valley Ranch Mix) you’ll never have to settle for store-bought again. With the perfect blend of herbs and spices, it’s ideal for your next batch of DIY ranch dressing or dip.

small glass bottle of dry ranch seasoning mix with carrots, onion and garlic in background

Store-Bought vs. Homemade Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix

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As one of the most popular salad dressings in the US, ranch seasoning has an interesting history. It was invented by a cook called Steve Henson in the early 1950s. During this time, fresh herbs and dairy were not readily available so he invented a dry ranch seasoning mix. Alongside his wife, they opened a steakhouse and guest ranch in California called Hidden Valley. Word soon got out about their special seasoning and so the Hensons decided to sell it.

The issue with today’s store-bought dry ranch seasoning is that it is usually packed with additives such as MSG (monosodium glutamate.) Confusingly, MSG is often labeled as “natural flavor” as it occurs naturally in many foods, such as tomatoes and cheeses. It is a flavor enhancer that adds an umami taste that although considered safe, it can trigger inflammation as well as sensitive reactions such as nausea.

By making this copycat Hidden Hidden Valley Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix you know exactly what’s in it, making it even more irresistible with no nasties. Best of all, it can be used in so many ways from potatoes to popcorn, it’s deliciously diverse and so easy to make.

small glass bottle of dry ranch seasoning mix

How to Make Dry Ranch Seasoning Step by Step

  1. Add all the ingredients to a large bowl.
  2. Mix until well combined.
  3. Store in an airtight jar ready to flavor your family favorites.

How to Use Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix

The two most popular ways to use this dry ranch seasoning mix are in a dressing or dip.

  • To make Ranch Dressing
    Add 1 tbsp dry ranch seasoning to ⅓ cup mayonnaise and ¼ cup buttermilk. Whisk to combine, then cover and refrigerate for around 30 minutes. Stir the dressing before using it on your favorite salads.
  • To make Ranch Dip
    For a ranch dip, add 2 tbsp dry ranch seasoning to 16 ounces of sour cream. For best results, refrigerate for at least one hour.

Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix Uses

Alongside dip and dressing, there are many other ways to use this Hidden Valley dry ranch seasoning mix copycat. A few favorites include:

What is the Difference Between Ranch Dressing and Ranch Seasoning?

Ranch seasoning is essentially the “dry” version. It contains the same spices and herbs as ranch dressing but does not contain perishables such as sour cream or mayonnaise. This means that dry ranch seasoning has a long shelf life and can be used for your own homemade dressings and dips instead of buying from the store.

How Long Does It Last?

The shelf life will depend on how old your ingredients are. Ideally the fresher your dried herbs and spices, the longer your dry ranch seasoning mix will last. Generally it’s around one year when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Can I refrigerate this Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix?

Although refrigeration prevents many foods from spoiling it is not recommended to keep this seasoning mix in a refrigerator. This is because there are higher levels of humidity in a refrigerator which can affect the freshness and taste of the spices. Store any dried spices and herbs in your pantry as these are the perfect conditions for maximum shelf life. With proper storage, ground spices can retain their freshness for at least one year.

small glass bottle with dry ranch seasoning mix, onion and salt pepper shakers

Top Tips

  • This recipe makes approximately 1 cup (8 ounces) of dry mix. Most recipes call for 1 ounce packets of dry ranch seasoning mix, so 1 ounce equals to around 2 tablespoons of this homemade version.
  • Homemade dry ranch seasoning can usually last up to one year, depending on the age of your dried herbs and spices.
  • The finer ingredients such as salt and garlic may settle to the bottom of the jar. To avoid this, you can either pulse in a food processor or add to a spice grinder. This will ensure the ingredients are mixed consistently.  

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small glass bottle of dry ranch seasoning mix with carrots, onion and garlic in background

Homemade Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix

Don’t Mess With Mama
Ranch seasoning is a pantry staple, but now thanks to this copycat Hidden Valley Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix you’ll never have to settle for store-bought again.
5 from 16 votes
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course condiment
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 81 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 spatula or whisk

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Add all the ingredients to a large bowl.
  • Mix until well combined.
  • Store in an airtight jar ready to flavor your family favorites.

Nutrition

Serving: 2tbspCalories: 81kcalCarbohydrates: 13gProtein: 7gFat: 0.3gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 3mgSodium: 675mgPotassium: 417mgFiber: 1gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 1236IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 239mgIron: 1mg
Keyword dry ranch, ranch mix, ranch seasoning mix
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16 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    My husband, a hard sell, loves this homemade ranch dressing. I will be making it all summer long!!!

  2. 5 stars
    Cool! I can’t always find the ranch seasoning packets for my nuts n bolts recipe and I’d much rather make it from scratch so I know what’s in it.