Save Recreate the bold and tangy flavor of your favorite wing restaurant with this homemade Southwest Ranch Sauce. Inspired by the zesty profiles of Buffalo Wild Wings, this creamy condiment blends traditional ranch seasoning with warm southwest spices for a dip that is as versatile as it is delicious.
Save Whether you're prepping for a game day spread or just want to add a kick to your weekday lunch, this sauce is the answer. It combines the coolness of buttermilk and mayonnaise with the heat of hot sauce and taco spices, creating a creamy texture that coats wings and salads perfectly.
Ingredients
- Base: 1 cup (224 g) mayonnaise, ½ cup (120 ml) buttermilk (plus more for thinning).
- Flavorings: 2 teaspoons hot sauce (e.g., Franks RedHot), 1 teaspoon ketchup.
- Seasonings: 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix, 1 tablespoon taco seasoning, ½ teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper, ¼ teaspoon ground cumin, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper.
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and buttermilk until smooth and well combined.
- Step 2
- Add the hot sauce and ketchup; whisk again.
- Step 3
- Add the ranch seasoning mix, taco seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until fully incorporated and the sauce is creamy.
- Step 4
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. For a thinner sauce, add more buttermilk, one tablespoon at a time. For a thicker dip, reduce the buttermilk to ¼ cup.
- Step 5
- Transfer the sauce to a jar or airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
- Step 6
- Serve as a dip for wings, fries, and vegetables, or drizzle over salads and wraps.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best consistency, use a medium mixing bowl and a whisk to ensure the seasonings are fully incorporated without lumps. Chilling the sauce for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator is a crucial step, as it allows the dried spices to hydrate and the flavors to fully develop.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you prefer a smoky twist, you can substitute chipotle powder for the cayenne pepper. For a lower-calorie version, light mayonnaise works well. Be sure to check labels on your taco and ranch seasoning mixes if you are avoiding gluten or soy, as these blends can sometimes contain allergens.
Serviervorschläge
This Southwest Ranch Sauce is a fantastic pairing for grilled chicken, roasted potatoes, or even as a zesty burger spread. It also works beautifully as a dressing for wraps and salads or as a dip for crispy fries and fresh vegetables like celery sticks.
Save Once you try this homemade version, you'll never go back to store-bought. It’s the ultimate way to bring bold, southwest-inspired flair to your favorite snacks and meals.
Questions & Answers
- → How long does southwest ranch sauce last in the refrigerator?
Store your sauce in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The flavors continue to develop over time, making it even better after a day or two.
- → Can I make this sauce spicier or milder?
Absolutely. Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the hot sauce and cayenne pepper. For extra kick, add more hot sauce or substitute chipotle powder for the cayenne. For a milder version, reduce the cayenne to a pinch or omit it entirely.
- → What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don't have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes. Plain yogurt thinned with a little water also works well as a substitute.
- → Is this sauce gluten-free?
The base ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but some ranch and taco seasoning mixes may contain gluten. Check your seasoning labels carefully to ensure they're certified gluten-free, or make your own seasoning blends at home.
- → What dishes pair best with southwest ranch sauce?
This versatile sauce shines with chicken wings, french fries, onion rings, and raw vegetables. It's also excellent drizzled over salads, wrapped in burritos, spread on burgers, or served alongside grilled chicken, roasted potatoes, and tex-mex dishes.