Copycat Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning

This Copycat Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning delivers that classic, zesty flavor we all know and love. It’s a fantastic way to have ranch on hand whenever you need it, without relying on store-bought packets or bottles. One of the best things about making homemade seasoning recipes yourself is how adaptable they are. You can easily adjust the amounts of each ingredient to get it just how you like it. Plus, it’s a more budget-friendly choice and a good solution if you’re looking to avoid certain preservatives or additives often found in commercial blends.

Typically, we use the ranch mix for dips but often as a salad dressing over a tossed salad. I started to make this homemade ranch seasoning a year or so ago and haven’t bought the packets since. We love it as much as my Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix and this Homemade Cajun Seasoning. It’s just so easy to make a batch and keep it in the refrigerator to use anytime.

Copycat Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning

This homemade seasoning blend combines dry buttermilk powder with parsley, dill, chives, and herbs and spices. It’s a dry mix meant to be used as needed in place of pre-packaged ranch mix. One batch makes 1 full cup of seasoning, which equals 8 store-bought packets—just use 2 tablespoons per recipe as a direct substitute for one regular Hidden Valley packet.

The buttermilk powder based mix used will mix well into sour cream, Greek yogurt, or mayo to make dips and dressings, but also works as a dry rub or snack seasoning. It’s ideal for batch prepping and storing in an airtight jar for up to six months.

Timesaving Tips and Variations

This ranch seasoning mix is already quick to make, but there are a few easy ways to make it even faster and more adaptable. Whether you’re short on time or just want to change things up, these tips can help. Think of them as simple tweaks that fit your cooking style.

• Make a Big Batch: Double or triple the recipe so you always have it on hand. It stores well for months.
• Skip the Milk Powder: Go dairy-free by leaving it out and adding fresh dairy when you mix it into dips. Or, use a plant-based milk like almond milk powder (affiliate link).
• Add a Kick: Like it spicy? Add a bit of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
• Swap the Herbs: Use what you have—more dill, less chive, or even green onion flakes work.
• Lower the Salt: Cut back the salt if you’re watching your sodium or use a low-sodium substitute.

These little changes can save you time and make the mix work better for your preferences. It’s a flexible recipe, so don’t be afraid to tweak it. As long as the basics are in place, the flavor will still hit the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I store leftover ranch seasoning?

Store your homemade ranch seasoning in an airtight container in your fridge. Properly stored, it should last for several months, similar to other dried herbs and spices.

What’s the best way to rehydrate the seasoning for dips or dressings?

For a classic ranch dip or dressing, use 2 tablespoons of homemade ranch seasoning to replace 1 regular-sized packet of store-bought ranch seasoning mix.

Can I prepare this seasoning blend in advance?

Absolutely, that’s the beauty of creating your own blends! In fact, making a larger batch of this Copycat Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning ahead of time is a great way to save time later. Just ensure it’s stored properly in an airtight container.

Are there any variations or substitutions I can make?

Yes! Feel free to adjust the amounts of each herb and spice to suit your taste. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you prefer a cheesier flavor, you can add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast. For a vegan option, ensure your dip and dressing bases (like sour cream and mayonnaise) are plant-based.

More Homemade Seasonings to Try

So, now that you’ve got the hang of homemade ranch, you might be wondering what other seasoning magic you can create in your own kitchen. Making your own spice blends is a neat way to really dial in the flavors you like and keep things stocked without relying on store-bought stuff all the time. Plus, they’re usually pretty straightforward to whip up.

• Italian Seasoning Recipe 
• Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning
• Philly Cheese Steak Seasoning Recipe

Playing around with different seasoning mixes can really add some oomph to your meals. You might stumble upon some new favorite flavors, and it’s always good to know exactly what you’re putting in your food. Give a few of these other easy recipes a try when you get a chance!

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What Kitchen Tools are Used to Make Ranch Seasoning Mix?

You don’t need any special equipment to make this seasoning—just a few basic kitchen tools you likely already have. Keeping things simple means it’s easy to prep a batch anytime. Here’s what you’ll need:

• measuring cups and spoons
• mixing bowl
• whisk
• mason jar or an airtight container

These basic tools make the process quick and straightforward. You can scale up the batch or adjust texture depending on what equipment you use. Cleanup is minimal, and everything stores easily.

Ingredients in Homemade Ranch Seasoning

This homemade ranch seasoning is made from simple pantry staples—nothing artificial and no preservatives. Each ingredient adds to that classic ranch flavor, balancing herbs, spices, and creamy notes. Here’s exactly what goes into the mix:

• buttermilk powder
• dried parsley
• garlic powder
• onion powder
• dried dill
• minced onion flakes
• freeze dried chives
• coarse salt
• black pepper
• sugar

These ingredients come together to create a versatile, flavorful seasoning. You likely have most of them on hand, and they store well for repeated use. Once mixed, it’s ready to use in dips, dressings, and more.

How to Make Copycat Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning

This recipe, if you can call it that, is so easy. Gather your ingredients, measure, mix, and store in a jar with a lid. Use 2 tablespoons of mix for every 1 packet a recipe calls for. You’ll have a fresh, preservative-free seasoning ready in minutes with zero need for a trip to the store.

If you’re someone who likes to batch prep and stock your pantry with homemade spice blends, this DIY ranch seasoning is worth adding to your list. It’s shelf-stable, full of classic flavor, and flexible enough to suit different dietary needs. Whether you’re making ranch dip for a party or seasoning chicken for dinner, this mix delivers consistent results. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can skip the prepackaged version and enjoy a homemade option that tastes even better.

Enjoy!