Cowboy Butter Ranch Dressing

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Creamy, zesty, and irresistibly tangy, Cowboy Butter Ranch Dressing is the ultimate flavor bomb your salads and grilled meats have been craving. Combining the boldness of cowboy butter with the familiar comfort of ranch, this dressing brings a savory, herby kick that transforms every bite into a crave-worthy experience. Whether you’re drizzling it over a crisp wedge salad, dunking fries, or using it as a bold marinade, it adds a delightful Southern flair to your table.

With garlic, herbs, citrus, and a touch of heat, this dressing walks the line between classic and daring. It’s not just for salads—Cowboy Butter Ranch is a secret weapon in wraps, over grilled vegetables, and even brushed onto warm rolls. One batch and you’ll be hooked.

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What Makes Cowboy Butter Ranch Dressing So Irresistible?

It’s the fusion of two powerhouses: rich, buttery cowboy sauce and tangy, herbed ranch. This combo delivers layers of depth—the kind that keeps you coming back with spoon in hand. The subtle spice and brightness of lemon make it versatile, and the creamy base ensures it coats everything deliciously.

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Ingredients for the Cowboy Butter Ranch Dressing

• Unsalted Butter: The foundation of cowboy butter, it adds creamy richness.
• Fresh Garlic: For that signature kick and depth.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens and balances the fats with acidity.
• Chopped Parsley: Offers a fresh herbal note that keeps it vibrant.
• Chives and Dill: Classic ranch herbs that boost the herby profile.
• Paprika and Red Pepper Flakes: A little warmth without overwhelming spice.
• Mayonnaise: Helps form the creamy base.
• Sour Cream: Adds tang and body.
• Buttermilk: Thins it slightly while maintaining creaminess and tang.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Enhances every flavor in the mix.

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How To Make the Cowboy Butter Ranch Dressing

Step 1: Melt the Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk. Whisk until smooth and fully blended. This trio forms the creamy foundation of the dressing.

Step 3: Add the Flavor Builders

Stir in the chopped parsley, chives, and dill. Follow with the lemon juice, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Pour in the cooled garlic butter and whisk thoroughly.

Step 4: Season and Chill

Finish by adding salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. The texture will thicken slightly as it chills.

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How to Serve and Store Cowboy Butter Ranch Dressing

This dressing is wildly versatile. Drizzle it over salads, use it as a dipping sauce for fries or chicken tenders, or brush it onto grilled corn and roasted veggies. It also doubles as a zippy spread for wraps and burgers.

To store, keep it in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 7 days. Stir or shake before using, especially if it has thickened from chilling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter with a dairy-free margarine, use vegan mayo and sour cream, and replace buttermilk with a mix of non-dairy milk and vinegar.

How spicy is Cowboy Butter Ranch Dressing?

It has a mild heat from red pepper flakes and paprika. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Use one-third the amount of dried herbs in place of fresh. The flavor will be slightly more concentrated.

How long does this dressing last in the fridge?

Up to 7 days in a sealed container. Always give it a good stir before serving.

Can I use this as a marinade?

Definitely. It works great for chicken, shrimp, and even steak, infusing rich flavor before grilling.

Is this dressing gluten-free?

It is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on individual ingredients to be sure.

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Want More Sauce and Dressing Ideas?

If you’re loving this Cowboy Butter Ranch Dressing, you might want to try some of these savory recipes too:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails for a luxurious seafood main.
• Cheesy Ranch Potatoes if you’re craving comfort food with a zesty twist.
• Mississippi Sin Quiche packed with creamy, cheesy flavors perfect for brunch.
• Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce for a weeknight-friendly pasta dish.
• One Pot Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Rotini that balances tangy ranch with hearty flavors.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it whenever you need a bold, creamy dressing!

And tell me how it turned out in the comments. Did you add more spice? Try it on burgers or grilled corn? I’m always excited to hear how you make it your own.

Let’s make every bite count—and every salad unforgettable.

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