Ranch dressing mix is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes to add flavor and creaminess. In this recipe compilation, we’ll explore eight different ways to use ranch dressing mix, from savory dips to flavorful main dishes. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for easy weeknight meals, these recipes are sure to please.
1. Ranch Bacon Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
How to make:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in the ranch dressing mix, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
- Add the cooked macaroni, bacon, and parsley. Stir until well combined.
About the main ingredients:
- Ranch dressing mix: Adds a savory and herby flavor to the mac and cheese, elevating its taste.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce, giving the mac and cheese its creamy and cheesy consistency.
- Bacon: Adds a smoky and salty flavor that complements the ranch seasoning.
2. Ranch Chicken Tenders
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray
How to make:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Spray the tops with cooking spray.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy.
About the main ingredients:
- Chicken tenders: The perfect size for snacking or a main course, they absorb the ranch seasoning well.
- Breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese: Create a crispy coating that contrasts with the tender chicken.
- Eggs: Help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken.
3. Ranch Potato Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds red potatoes, cubed
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to make:
- Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing mix, mayonnaise, and sour cream.
- Add the cooled potatoes, celery, red onion, and parsley to the bowl. Stir until well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
About the main ingredients:
- Red potatoes: Their creamy texture and thin skin make them ideal for potato salad.
- Mayonnaise and sour cream: Create a creamy and tangy dressing that complements the potatoes.
- Celery and red onion: Add crunch and freshness to the salad.
4. Ranch Veggie Dip
Ingredients:
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- Assorted fresh vegetables, for serving
How to make:
- In a small bowl, mix together the ranch dressing mix, mayonnaise, and sour cream until well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve with assorted fresh vegetables, such as carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.
About the main ingredients:
- Mayonnaise and sour cream: Create a creamy and tangy base for the dip.
- Ranch dressing mix: Infuses the dip with classic ranch flavor, perfect for pairing with fresh vegetables.
5. Ranch Turkey Burgers
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce, tomato slices, and additional ranch dressing, for serving
How to make:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, ranch dressing mix, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the burgers for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
- Serve the burgers on buns with lettuce, tomato slices, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
About the main ingredients:
- Ground turkey: A leaner alternative to beef, it’s flavored with ranch dressing mix for a unique twist on a classic burger.
- Breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese: Help bind the burgers together and add texture and flavor.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness to the burgers.
- Ranch dressing: Can be used both in the burger mixture and as a topping, adding a creamy and tangy flavor.
6. Ranch Chicken and Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How to make:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, ranch dressing mix, rice, chicken broth, peas, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
About the main ingredients:
- Chicken breasts: Provide lean protein and a hearty texture to the casserole.
- Ranch dressing mix: Adds flavor to the chicken and rice, infusing the dish with a savory taste.
- Rice and chicken broth: Cook together to create a creamy and flavorful base for the casserole.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts into the casserole, adding a gooey and cheesy layer to the dish.
7. Ranch Popcorn
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
How to make:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the popcorn kernels and cover with a lid.
- Cook, shaking the pot occasionally, until the popping stops.
- Transfer the popcorn to a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix and melted butter. Drizzle over the popcorn and toss to coat evenly.
About the main ingredients:
- Popcorn kernels: Pop to create a crunchy and satisfying snack.
- Vegetable oil: Used to pop the kernels evenly.
- Ranch dressing mix and butter: Add a savory and buttery flavor to the popcorn, making it a delicious and addictive snack.
8. Ranch Pretzel Bites
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mini pretzel twists
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
How to make:
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the pretzel twists, vegetable oil, and ranch dressing mix. Toss until evenly coated.
- Spread the pretzels in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pretzels are crispy.
- Let cool before serving.
About the main ingredients:
- Pretzel twists: Provide a crunchy base for the ranch seasoning.
- Vegetable oil: Helps the ranch seasoning adhere to the pretzels.
- Ranch dressing mix: Adds a savory and herby flavor to the pretzel bites, making them a flavorful snack.
