17 Store-Bought Ranch Dressings, Ranked Worst To Best
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Pretty much everyone can agree that ranch dressing is exceptionally delicious. As far as salad dressings and dips go, ranch probably reigns supreme. It's universally liked, goes with so many different flavors, and is oh-so-satisfying. And while the most die-hard ranch fans out there probably already have a tried and true brand they stick to when purchasing a bottle of ranch, it can be hard for most people to know where to start.
Because, when it comes to ranch dressing, especially store-bought ranch dressing, there are definitely some options that are a lot better than others. For the most part, any brand of store-bought ranch dressing you come across isn't going to be expensive. But what it can be is nasty — if you aren't careful about which ranch you choose. Seriously, even if you don't consider yourself to be a huge fan of ranch dressing, you'll want to see this list of store-bought ranch ranked worst to best. Because honestly, life's too short for bad ranch dressing.
17. Annie's Naturals Cowgirl Ranch Dressing
There's no denying the fact that the Annie's Homegrown brand definitely churns out some impressive and delicious products. And for the most part, they're all pretty healthy options compared to some other products lining the shelves of the grocery store.
But Annie's Naturals Cowgirl Ranch Dressing is probably the worst store-bought ranch dressing you can spend your money on. But don't just take our word for it. As one reviewer wrote about the ranch, it's seriously awful. "This is NOT ranch dressing," they wrote. "Even the worst store brand ranch tastes better than this mess. It is sweet (which ranch dressing should not be), strangely tangy/acidic — reminiscent of stomach bile, very one-dimensional flavor... like did they only have one herb growing on this ranch?" As if that wasn't enough, another user didn't mince words about the ranch. "I don't know how they pulled it off, but they managed to get it to taste EXACTLY like my vomit," they said. Um, gross. There are so many other store-bought ranch dressings out there to satisfy your craving, why waste your time with one that's so bad?
16. O Organics Ranch Organic Dressing
When you're at the grocery store and see a bottle or box of something labeled as "organic," you probably think it's a healthier alternative to another, non-organic option. And while that's true in some cases, it doesn't mean the product is necessarily all that much healthier or tastier. And in this case, it's a lot worse than other brands.
The O Organics Ranch Organic Dressing is technically a generic store brand (from Albertsons), but the packaging makes it seem a little fancier. The ranch comes in a glass bottle with a pretty fancy-looking label, and is more expensive than a lot of other ranch dressings because it's organic. But it's not worth the extra cost. And more than that, it's not worth it at all. The O Organics Ranch Organic Dressing doesn't have a ton of flavor, but what it does taste like is a lot sweeter, and even a little fishier than you would want a ranch to be. Basically, it's a waste of money, and you can buy something that tastes a lot better for a much lower cost.
15. Trader Joe's Organic Ranch Dressing
Anyone who has ever shopped at Trader Joe's knows that the iconic grocery store is loaded full of the store's own brand of products that tend to have cult-like followings. Trader Joe's has a ton of organic options, but when it comes to their version of ranch dressing, being organic definitely doesn't make it any better tasting than most other brands out there.
Not only that, but being organic also doesn't make the Trader Joe's Organic Ranch Dressing any healthier than other ranch dressings. "Imagine my amazement when I got home and found that each serving (2 Tablespoons) contains 3 grams of actual sugar," one reviewer wrote. "This means that a cup of the stuff contains 24 grams of sugar." Obviously, that's a ton of sugar, especially when ranch dressing doesn't really require a ton of sugar itself. Additionally, another reviewer explained they were "disappointed to find this dressing bland and runny. I don't know what goes into transforming a product into 'organic', but if you find your ranch too thick and too boldly-flavored, this is right up your alley." So yeah, this is one product that Trader Joe's didn't nail.
14. Wish-Bone Ranch Dressing
With so many different options out there, it can definitely be overwhelming to pick out a bottle of ranch dressing at the grocery store.
But the Wish-Bone Ranch Dressing is seriously disappointing. Yes, it might be on the cheaper side at the grocery store, but that doesn't mean it's worth it to save a few cents. Not only is the ranch just not flavorful enough, but it also has a bad consistency that will leave you disappointed, and potentially even a little grossed out. As one review of the ranch put it, it was "the worst ranch dressing I've ever tasted," they explained, adding that "it's like they just added more water to make mayo more soluble." Gross. But they weren't alone. Another person added that it was pretty nasty-looking. "Shook it, opened it, used it on pizza and honestly, it's disgusting to look at and flavorless to taste." Yeah, that's so not what you want in a ranch. Seriously, just steer clear of this one.
13. Daiya Homestyle Ranch Dressing
People with a dairy allergy or intolerance know that most ranch dressings aren't going to be compatible with their diet. Fortunately, brands like Daiya's Homestyle Ranch Dressing are definitely a possible option for people looking for something dairy-free... but it's not the best out there.
While a dairy-free ranch dressing probably sounds amazing to anyone on a vegan, plant-based, or dairy-free lifestyle, this ranch isn't worth it. As one review put it, the flavor of this ranch dressing is so not what you would expect a ranch dressing to taste like. " It was too 'cheesy' (odd since there is no actual cheese in this product), which makes me think that so much flavoring has been added to hide the natural flavor and make it taste like ranch dressing," they explained. Another added, This is a horrible swing-and-a-miss. If you think you'll enjoy the flavor of a sweet bleu cheese dressing, then you should definitely buy this, because that's exactly what it tastes like." Yuck, ranch dressing should definitely not taste like bleu cheese dressing, that's for sure. This ranch is best to be avoided.
12. Newman's Own Ranch
The Newman's Own Ranch definitely isn't the best store-bought ranch dressing out there, but it also isn't the worst. So while you could definitely do better, if you're a big fan of the brand, or just want to try out a new ranch, then you might as well give this one a go. People who have tried the ranch dressing seem to be in one of two camps of either loving it or hating it, so make of that what you will.
According to one review, the ranch dressing is pretty nasty. "Absolutely disgusting! The most prominent flavor is tart/sour, not sure if it's the lemon or the vinegar or some combination of both but it's not even edible as far as I am concerned." But another reviewer called it the "Best ranch ever!" So clearly, this ranch dressing is pretty mediocre, and whether or not you end up liking it might just depend on your taste buds.
11. 365 Organic Ranch Dressing
Oh, Whole Foods. The grocery store prides itself on offering the best of the best in terms of healthy foods, and so you would expect nothing less from them than a super healthy ranch dressing option. And the 365 Organic Ranch Dressing is definitely that, with the organic label and all. But it's honestly not the best ranch out there, and seems to be kind of a let-down in terms of flavor and consistency.
As one reviewer put it, the ranch isn't very ranch-like. "It's thinner and tastes like they dumped a bunch of Italian herbs into it," the person wrote. "Vaguely tastes like ranch anymore. Like a creamy Italian dressing." Another added, "Seems a little thinner and vinegary tasting." Obviously, when you think of ranch dressing, you want it to be thicker and creamier and full of flavor, not thin and vinegar-like. On the other hand, another reviewer raved about the ranch. "I am quite the ranch connoisseur, and this is the best ranch I've ever had," they wrote. So clearly, if you enjoy a thinner, more tarte ranch dressing, you actually might enjoy the 365 Organic Ranch Dressing — but be wary that it's definitely not the best ranch out there by a long shot.
10. Simply Balanced Organic Ranch Dressing
In the same way that the Trader Joe's and Whole Food's store brands of ranch dressing aren't anything to write home about, so is the Target version. The Simply Balanced Organic Ranch Dressing might be enticing to ranch lovers with the organic label, glass jar, and lower price point compared to some other brands, but it's really not the best. Of course, you can definitely get a worse ranch, but if you're wanting the ultimate ranch dressing, this isn't it, because it's not all that ranch-like.
According to one review of the ranch, the flavor profile in this dressing is a little different than you might expect. "So this doesn't taste like your traditional ranch, but is still really good!" the reviewer wrote. Instead of being rich and creamy, the review describes it as "a little thinner than others, has a slightly tangy flavor and isn't as heavy as normal ranch." So, if you're looking for the absolute best, rich and traditional ranch dressing, keep looking. However, if you want a lighter, tangier ranch, this might be perfect for you. Either way, it's still not the best ranch out there, that's for sure.
9. Marzetti Simply Dressed Ranch Dressing
The Marzetti Simply Dressed Ranch Dressing is another decent offering if you're looking for a healthier alternative to regular ranch. While it's definitely not as flavorful as some other ranch dressings you can buy in stores, it is a little lower in calories and because it's sold in the refrigerated section of salad dressings, it feels a little fresher, too.
One review of the ranch dressing explained that the taste was very appealing to them. "I'm super picky with ranch (I usually like the kind that comes with your pizza) but THIS is the best," they wrote. Another added that the Marzetti Simply Dressed Ranch Dressing was "super yummy and not so bad for ya," especially compared to other ranch dressings. Still this isn't all that great, and it's definitely not as flavorful as other ranch brands. So, you're better off leaving this one on the shelf in the store.
8. Ken's Steak House Ranch Dressing
To be honest, you've probably not really heard or paid much attention to the Ken's Steak House brand. It's fairly low-key, but the brand makes a ton of salad dressings and marinades, and that includes their own version of ranch dressing, something you probably have skipped over at the grocery store.
But Ken's Steak House Ranch Dressing is actually pretty good, especially considering the fact that it's nothing fancy, nor expensive, and you can find it at just about every grocery store. One review described it as, "very thick and full of exciting, zesty and bold ranch flavors." Another ranked it among their favorite ranch dressings out there. "One of the better ranch dressings," they wrote. "Have tried many and there are just a few that are really good — this is one of them. The flavor is not too strong blue cheese or herby." Honestly, Ken's Steak House Ranch Dressing is pretty darn good. But it's still not the best store-bought ranch out there.
7. Tuscan Garden Ranch Dressing
Anyone who shops at Aldi knows the grocery store is a great place to go when looking for a deal. And with their own store brand of just about everything, you can save a ton of money. And, as it turns out, the Aldi store brand of ranch is actually both cheap and impressive. Again, it's not anything super special or life-changing, but if you're an Aldi shopper, you can't go wrong with their Tuscan Garden Ranch Dressing.
A review of the ranch dressing described it as, "good but not great, which is how we tend to feel about most store-bought bottled ranch dressing. It's not as good as restaurant ranch," but still pretty good for buying it from the grocery store. Again, this ranch is great value for your money, and will definitely get the job done if you need a quick solution for dinner. Sure, it won't take your breath away with how tasty it is, but it still might impress you.
6. Kraft Classic Ranch Dressing
When you think of Kraft products, you probably think of their mac and cheese, but don't skip over their salad dressings — specifically their ranch. The Kraft Classic Ranch Dressing is actually seriously tasty. Once again, Kraft proves that a brand doesn't have to be fancy or organic to make a good product, and their ranch is the perfect example of that. While some die-hard ranch fans will prefer another brand (more on that later), plenty actually like Kraft more.
"This is my favorite ranch!" one person wrote in a review of the dressing. "It's super creamy and has that classic ranch taste. We use this for dipping as well as for our salads." But that's not all. "This is pretty decent ranch, it's not watery like some ranches," another added. "It's thick and creamy and good on any kind of food: pizza, salad, chicken fingers, etc." Yes, people really love the Kraft Classic Ranch Dressing, so if you've never tried it, now is the time. It's cheap, it's available everywhere almost, and it won't let you down.
5. Litehouse Homestyle Ranch Dressing
Between all the typical brands of ranch dressing found in the grocery store, there's one you might have missed. The Litehouse Homestyle Ranch Dressing might just surprise you. It's typically found in the refrigerated section of the grocery store, so it's easy to ignore, but it's seriously a strong competitor in the race for best store-bought ranch dressing. It's super flavorful, the texture is great, and while it's a little more expensive than other ranch dressings, it might just be worth it to you.
According to reviews of the ranch, it's honestly one of the best out there. "This ranch is life changing! It is soooo good! (Like gives Wingstop ranch a run for its money). Don't think, just buy!" one review exclaimed. "Always in search of a store-bought ranch dressing that tastes homemade and this is the best I have found, yet!" another added. Clearly, the Litehouse Homestyle Ranch Dressing is pretty darn good, though still not the best of the best.
4. Hidden Valley Ranch
Hidden Valley Ranch is probably the most well-known and classic store-bought ranch out there. And honestly, there's a reason for that. It's simple, it's tried and true, and it can please even the pickiest of eaters.
As one reviewer put it, the brand of ranch dressing is practically a kitchen staple. "Hidden Valley ranch is a favorite at my house," they wrote. "We eat it with everything. My grandchildren have to have it on their plate at every meal!" Another reviewer also raved about the ranch. "I've tried many different brands of ranch and I always come back to this. This is the best ranch out there," they said. Yes, if you want the ultimate ranch dressing experience, then you can't go wrong with Hidden Valley. It's inexpensive, creamy, and just the right amount of tangy. But, there's a reason why it's not the absolute best, and it's because it's not as flavorful as some other options.
3. Bolthouse Farms Classic Ranch Yogurt Dressing
Anyone who consumes ranch dressing on a regular or semi-regular basis knows that it's not exactly the healthiest salad dressing out there. Sure, it's delicious, but it adds a ton of calories to whatever it is you're eating. Fortunately, there are some alternatives. The Bolthouse Farms Classic Ranch Yogurt Dressing is probably the best healthy ranch dressing option you can buy in a grocery store. The dressing is made with yogurt, obviously, instead of heavier alternatives like mayonnaise, buttermilk, or cream, so it's lower in fat and calories. Because of that, it's not your typical ranch flavor, but it's still pretty good.
According to the reviews of the dressing, it's honestly great for being a healthy alternative. "I love this dressing," one reviewer wrote. "It is so much healthier than regular ranch and tastes great!" However, another added that since it's made with yogurt, it doesn't have a long shelf-life. "These are great, but do check expiration since sometimes they don't have much time left while still on the shelf," they warned. The Bolthouse Farms Classic Ranch Yogurt Dressing is definitely tasty, and a great healthy option, but it doesn't last as long as traditional ranch, and therefore isn't the best.
2. Olive Garden Parmesan Ranch Dressing
The Olive Garden Parmesan Ranch Dressing isn't your typical ranch dressing, as the name would imply. But it is seriously delicious. So, if you're ready to expand your taste palate and try a store-bought ranch dressing that goes beyond your expectations, this is it.
A couple of reviews of the ranch were pretty succinct in their description, pointing out it's "great taste and consistency," and calling it an "excellent salad dressing." But one person couldn't get enough of the ranch and raved about it. "In my opinion, this is the best tasting ranch on the market," they wrote in their review. "It's best served cold. It has a crisp tang that I haven't found in any other ranch dressings. Maybe it's the addition of the Parmesan that makes it so delicious." Maybe! Whatever the case, this is a great quality store-bought ranch, so if you see it on your next grocery run, add it to your cart.
1. Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch
The Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch is the best store-bought ranch dressing on the market, hands down. The addition of the buttermilk gives it that homemade taste, and also brings out the flavors of the ranch so much more than the original version. Not to mention, it's just as affordable as basically any other ranch on this list, and you can find it at basically every grocery store.
But if you need more convincing, just check out these reviews. "This is such a deliciously creamy dressing," one started. "My whole family loves it. It tastes so good on top of salads. I have also used it in cooking to make chicken and pork dishes." Yes, Hidden Valley Buttermilk Ranch is seriously so versatile it can go with everything! "I looooooove Hidden Valley Ranch! I that one person that has to have ranch almost on everything. The flavor and texture it gives is amazing and rich," another review added. Yes, this is the best ranch you can buy, so what are you waiting for?