Save The first time I made this sauce, I was hosting a last-minute game day gathering and realized I had forgotten to pick up dipping sauce from the store. My friend Sarah had raved about how Buffalo Wild Wings southwest ranch was basically liquid gold, so I decided to attempt a homemade version. Everyone ended up dipping everything in it, from the wings to the celery sticks, and someone actually asked if I could make them an entire jar to take home.
Ive started making a double batch of this sauce every Sunday because my husband has developed a habit of putting it on everything from breakfast burritos to salad bowls. Its become such a staple in our fridge that I honestly cant remember the last time we bought bottled ranch dressing.
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: Use real mayo for the creamiest base, light mayo works but the texture wont be quite as luxurious
- Buttermilk: This creates the perfect tangy ranch base and thins the sauce to dippable consistency
- Hot sauce: Franks RedHot gives the most authentic flavor but any cayenne-based sauce works beautifully
- Ketchup: Just a teaspoon adds a subtle sweetness that balances all the spices
- Dry ranch seasoning: The backbone of this sauce, dont skip this or youll lose that classic ranch flavor
- Taco seasoning: This is where the southwest magic happens, adding that savory cumin and chili notes
- Paprika: Adds a gorgeous color and mild earthy flavor
- Cayenne pepper: Brings the heat, reduce if youre sensitive to spice
- Ground cumin: Essential for that authentic southwest flavor profile
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Season to your taste, but remember the seasoning mixes already contain salt
Instructions
- Whisk the base:
- In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise and buttermilk until completely smooth and creamy with no lumps remaining
- Add the punch:
- Pour in the hot sauce and ketchup, whisking until theyre fully incorporated into the creamy base
- Season it up:
- Dump in all those beautiful spices, the ranch and taco seasonings, paprika, cayenne, cumin, salt, and pepper
- Mix it all together:
- Whisk vigorously until everything is perfectly blended and the sauce has a uniform, gorgeous orange-red hue
- Taste and adjust:
- Dip a spoon in and decide if you want more heat or sweetness, then thin with more buttermilk if needed
- Let it rest:
- Transfer to a jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes because the flavor transformation is worth the wait
Save Last summer I brought this to a neighborhood potluck and my neighbor asked for the recipe three different times throughout the evening. Now whenever we have block parties, someone inevitably asks, Whos bringing that amazing southwest ranch?
Make It Your Own
Ive discovered that swapping chipotle powder for the cayenne adds this incredible smoky depth that takes the sauce to a whole new level. My sister uses Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk and swears it makes an even tangier version thats perfect for veggie platters.
Serving Ideas
Beyond the obvious wings and fries, this sauce is phenomenal drizzled over breakfast burritos or used as a finishing touch on taco bowls. My kids love it as a dip for roasted sweet potato wedges, and my friend Becky serves it alongside her spicy black bean burgers.
Storage and Meal Prep
This sauce keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to a week, though in my house it rarely lasts more than three days. I love mason jars for storage because they make it easy to shake everything up if the ingredients separate slightly after sitting.
- Double the recipe and portion into smaller jars for grab-and-go lunches
- Use a wide-mouth jar so you can get every last drop out with a spatula
- Let the sauce come to room temperature for 10 minutes before using if youve stored it in the back of the fridge
Save Once you start making this southwest ranch, store-bought versions just wont hit the same spot. Its the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen wizard with almost zero effort.
Recipe FAQ
- → What makes this Southwest Ranch Sauce different from regular ranch?
This sauce combines traditional ranch seasoning with southwest spices like taco seasoning, cayenne pepper, and cumin, plus hot sauce and ketchup for added depth. The result is a zesty, slightly spicy version with a bold flavor profile that goes beyond classic ranch.
- → Can I adjust the spice level in this sauce?
Absolutely. Reduce the cayenne pepper and hot sauce for a milder version, or increase them for more heat. You can also add chipotle powder instead of cayenne for a smoky spiciness. Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
- → How long does this sauce last in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container or jar, this sauce will keep for up to one week in the refrigerator. The flavors actually develop and intensify after a day or two, making it even more delicious.
- → What can I serve with Southwest Ranch Sauce?
This versatile sauce pairs perfectly with chicken wings, french fries, onion rings, and raw vegetables for dipping. It's also excellent drizzled over salads, tucked into wraps, or used as a spread on burgers and sandwiches. Try it with grilled chicken, roasted potatoes, or as a topping for tacos.
- → Can I make this sauce lighter or healthier?
Yes, you can substitute light mayonnaise for regular mayonnaise to reduce calories and fat. The sauce will still be creamy and flavorful. You can also use low-fat buttermilk if desired.
- → Why does the sauce need to chill before serving?
The 30-minute chilling time allows the dried spices and seasonings to fully hydrate and blend with the mayonnaise and buttermilk base. This results in a smoother, more cohesive texture and allows the flavors to meld together for a more balanced taste.