Olive Garden Spicy Ranch Recipe

I have to say guys, I can’t resist the Spicy Ranch from Olive Garden – I just had to figure this one out!

This recipe is perfect for adding some zest to your salads, wings, and even tacos!

You’ll love the blend of creamy sour cream, zesty mayonnaise, and a kick of hot sauce and cayenne pepper.

The secret to nailing the perfect consistency is to chill the dressing for at least an hour.

I recommend using this dressing as a dip for fresh veggies or as a topping for your favorite dishes. Yum!

How to Make Olive Garden Spicy Ranch Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup Mayonnaise
• 1 cup Sour Cream
• 1/2 cup Buttermilk
• 2 tbsp Frank’s Red Hot Sauce
• 1 tbsp Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
• 1 clove Garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Dehydrated Onion Flakes
• 3/4 tsp Kosher Salt
• 1/2 tsp Dried Dill
• 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
• 1/8 tsp Cayenne Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk.

Step 2:

Add Frank’s Red Hot Sauce and freshly squeezed lime juice to the mixture.

Step 3:

Mince one clove of garlic and add it along with the dehydrated onion flakes.

Step 4:

Stir in the kosher salt, dried dill, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

Step 5:

Mix thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 6:

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 7:

Serve chilled with your favorite salads or as a dip for appetizers.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Adjust the Spice Level

If you prefer a milder dressing, decrease the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Freshly squeezed lime juice and minced garlic significantly enhance the flavor.

Consistency Control

If the dressing is too thick, thin it out with a bit more buttermilk. If it’s too runny, add a bit more mayonnaise.

Taste as You Go

Continually taste your dressing and adjust seasonings as needed.

Storage

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Adding this delicious, zesty dressing to your dishes will really make it stand out! Enjoy every bite!

What to Serve with Olive Garden Spicy Ranch Recipe

Classic Option: Breadsticks

Olive Garden’s signature breadsticks make a fantastic pairing.

These warm, buttery sticks are perfect for dipping into the rich and spicy ranch dressing.

It’s a combination that brings out the best in both flavors.

Traditional: Shrimp Fritto Misto

For a more upscale feel, consider making Shrimp Fritto Misto.

The crispy texture of the shrimp contrasts wonderfully with the creamy, spicy ranch.

The spicy ranch adds a subtle kick that elevates the shrimp.

Unique Option: Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are an unexpected yet delightful pairing.

The sweetness of the fries balances out the spiciness of the ranch.

It’s an excellent choice for those who like to mix things up.

Surprising Combo: Avocado Toast

Avocado toast might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but give it a try!

The creamy avocado complements the spicy ranch in a surprising way.

Top with cherry tomatoes and red onion for an extra burst of flavor.

Fun Choice: Vegetable Platter

For a fresh and crunchy pairing, go with a vegetable platter.

Cucumbers, bell peppers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes work really well.

The vibrant colors and textures make the platter not only tasty but visually appealing too!

Novel Idea: Fried Pickles

Fried pickles offer a tangy, crispy complement to the spicy ranch.

The crunchiness of the pickles pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

It’s a combination that will leave you wanting more.

Variations and Substitutions

For those who like an extra kick, adding cayenne pepper is a great idea!

Just a pinch can elevate the heat level without overwhelming the classic ranch flavor.

Have a dairy sensitivity or prefer a lighter option?

Try using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

It offers a tangy flavor and adds a bit of extra protein.

Herbs

If fresh herbs are available, use fresh dill and parsley instead of dried.

The fresh herbs bring an even brighter flavor to your dressing!

One common variation involves using lime juice instead of lemon.

It provides a slightly different tang, pairing well with the spices in your ranch dressing.

Hot Sauces

You can experiment with different hot sauces.

Frank’s Red Hot or Tapatío offer distinct flavors that can modify the overall taste profile.

If you enjoy a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.

This little swap contributes a rich depth to your spicy ranch.

Vegan Options

For a vegan version, use vegan mayonnaise and substitute your milk with almond or soy milk.

The result is just as creamy and delicious, sans animal products.

How to Store Leftover Olive Garden Spicy Ranch Recipe

Proper storage of leftover spicy ranch is essential to maintain its flavor and freshness.

Once you’ve made your Olive Garden spicy ranch, transfer it into an airtight container for best results.

This helps prevent any unwanted flavors from seeping in and keeps your ranch tasty.

Make sure to refrigerate the container immediately after you’re done using the ranch.

Properly stored, your homemade ranch can last for up to a week in the fridge.

Remember to give it a good stir before using it again, as ingredients may separate over time.

Keeping the ranch away from direct sunlight and heat sources is also a good practice.

Use of Mason Jars

Consider using mason jars for storing your ranch.

They seal tightly and are easy to clean.

The clear glass also lets you see how much ranch you have left!

Labeling the Container

Labeling your container with the date you made the ranch is a handy tip.

This way, you’ll always know how fresh your ranch is.

No need to guess!

Portion Control

If you’re planning to use small amounts, think about storing the ranch in smaller containers.

This way, you only expose a small portion at a time, keeping the rest fresh.

Small containers can be very convenient for quick servings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Wrong Amount of Milk

One common mistake is not adjusting the milk to achieve the perfect consistency.

If you use too much milk, the dressing becomes too runny.

If you use too little, it can be too thick.

Adjust as needed to get a creamy texture!

Overlooking Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients like freshly squeezed lime juice and minced garlic can make a huge difference.

Don’t rely solely on powdered or dried substitutes.

These fresh ingredients add a vibrant flavor to the ranch dressing.

Not Allowing Flavors to Meld

It’s easy to mix everything up and use it immediately, but patience is key.

Allow the dressing to sit in the fridge for at least an hour.

This helps the flavors meld together and enhances the overall taste.