Applebee’s Mexi-ranch Sauce Recipe

Want to recreate the taste of Applebee’s Mexi-Ranch Sauce in your own kitchen?

Yeah, me too!

This tangy and rich sauce is a perfect addition to your salads, tacos, or as a dip for your favorite appetizers.

Make sure to finely mince your onions and tomatoes to get that perfect texture and blend of flavors.

I find the slight kick from the canned jalapeño slices adds a wonderful depth without being overpowering.

Let’s do this!

How to Make Applebee’s Mexi-Ranch Sauce

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup Sour Cream
• 1 tbsp Milk
• 2 tsp Tomato (minced)
• 1 1/2 tsp White Vinegar
• 1 tsp Jalapeño (minced, canned)
• 1 tsp Onion (minced)
• 1/4 tsp Parsley (dried)
• 1/4 tsp Tabasco Sauce
• 1/8 tsp Salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Combine 1/4 cup Sour Cream and 1 tbsp Milk in a medium bowl.

Step 2:

Add 2 tsp Tomato (minced), 1 tsp Onion (minced), and 1 tsp Jalapeño (minced, canned) to the bowl.

Step 3:

Mix in 1 1/2 tsp White Vinegar and 1/4 tsp Parsley (dried).

Step 4:

Add 1/4 tsp Tabasco Sauce and 1/8 tsp Salt, then stir well until everything is combined.

Step 5:

Transfer the mixture to a jar or container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh minced tomato and onion will make your sauce taste even better.

Adjust the Heat

If you like it spicier, feel free to add more jalapeño or Tabasco sauce.

Let it Sit

Letting the sauce chill in the fridge for at least an hour really brings out the flavors.

Blender for Smoothness

For a smoother consistency, blend the dressing in a blender or use an immersion blender.

Enjoy the process and the tasty result!

What to Serve with Applebee’s Mexi-Ranch Sauce

Classic French Fries

You can never go wrong with classic French fries.

They’re perfect for dipping in that creamy Mexi-Ranch sauce.

The crunchiness of the fries complements the smooth texture of the sauce wonderfully.

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables offer a healthy and tasty side option.

Think bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, grilled to perfection.

They have a slight char that pairs excellently with the zing of the Mexi-Ranch sauce.

Buffalo Wings

Buffalo wings and Mexi-Ranch are a match made in heaven.

The tangy and spicy flavors of the wings go hand-in-hand with the creamy and cool sauce.

It’s a combination you’ll love especially during game nights or parties.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries add a fun and delicious twist to your meal.

Their natural sweetness pairs surprisingly well with the tangy flavors of the Mexi-Ranch sauce.

They provide a unique contrast you’ll enjoy.

Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is another fantastic option.

The sweetness of the corn, especially when grilled, tastes incredible with the Mexi-Ranch sauce.

You can garnish it with a bit of paprika for extra flair.

Avocado Salad

An avocado salad is a refreshing side dish.

The creaminess of the avocado mixed with fresh veggies complements the sauce beautifully.

It’s a light and tasty addition to your meal.

Jalapeño Poppers

Jalapeño poppers are a spicy treat to serve.

The heat from the poppers balanced with the cool Mexi-Ranch sauce is simply irresistible.

They make an excellent appetizer or side dish.

Variations and Substitutions

One fun way to change up your Mexi-Ranch sauce is by trying different spices.

You can swap out the regular taco seasoning for a smokier chipotle seasoning.

This will add a deeper, richer flavor that can be quite exciting!

Dairy-Free Alternatives

If you’re looking to make your sauce dairy-free, there are great options available.

Coconut milk yogurt or cashew cream work well as a substitute for sour cream.

These alternatives will maintain the creamy texture without the dairy.

Extra Kick

For those who love more heat, you can add extra jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.

I love to use a bit of sriracha or even habanero sauce for that extra punch.

These additions can really spice things up!

Herb Swaps

You can also play around with the herbs used in the sauce.

If you don’t have fresh parsley, cilantro can be an excellent alternative.

It gives the sauce a fresher, more vibrant taste.

Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite version!

How to Store Leftover Mexi-Ranch Sauce

Refrigeration

To keep your Mexi-Ranch Sauce fresh, always store it in an airtight container.

Glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work perfectly.

Label the container with the date using a piece of tape and a marker.

Duration

You can safely store the Mexi-Ranch Sauce in the fridge for up to a week.

This ensures that the flavors remain strong and the texture stays creamy.

Make sure to place it in the coldest part of your refrigerator.

Freezing

If you need to store it for a longer period, freezing is an option.

Use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.

Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Frozen Mexi-Ranch Sauce can last up to three months, giving you plenty of time to enjoy it!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Adding Too Much Liquid

When mixing your sauce, avoid adding too much salsa liquid.

Too much liquid makes the sauce runny, losing its creamy texture.

Add the chunky parts first, then slowly mix in the liquid until you get the right consistency.

Over-seasoning

Be careful not to over-season.

Mexi-Ranch Sauce can quickly become overpowering if too much seasoning is added.

Taste as you go, and remember that flavors develop over time in the fridge.

Skipping the Resting Time

Do not skip the resting time after mixing your ingredients.

Letting the sauce sit for at least an hour helps the flavors meld together well.

This step is crucial for achieving the authentic Applebee’s taste you love!