If you’ve ever dipped wings into the Southwest Ranch at Buffalo Wild Wings, you know how good that creamy-zesty combo is. This homemade version tastes just as delicious, and I love that I can thin it out for salads or keep it thick for dipping. It comes together fast with pantry seasonings and keeps well in the refrigerator for snacking, game days, and easy dinners. For another flavorful homemade sauce, try my Bang Bang Sauce; it’s sweet, spicy, and perfect for wings, shrimp, or drizzling over tacos.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayonnaise (make your own!) gives the creamiest texture. Light mayo works, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
- Buttermilk: Adds tang and thins the sauce. If you want a thicker sauce (like for dipping), use just 1/4 cup buttermilk. You can swap with whole milk plus a squeeze of lemon juice in a pinch.
- Hot Sauce: Any vinegar-based hot sauce works, including my jalapeño hot sauce! Adjust for heat.
- Ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: Use a packet or homemade ranch seasoning.
- Taco Seasoning: For the most flavor, use homemade taco seasoning. Store-bought would also work.
- Paprika: For mild smoky depth. If you don’t have paprika, you can use smoked paprika for extra smokiness or sweet paprika for a milder, sweeter flavor. Chili powder can also work in a pinch, though it will add a bit more heat.
- Ground Cayenne Pepper: Adjust to taste for heat. For no heat, simply omit or reduce the amount; your sauce will still be flavorful.
- Cumin: Warm, earthy flavor that makes copycat versions taste authentic. If you’re out of cumin, try ground coriander or a pinch of chili powder to mimic the warm, earthy notes.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Balances and wakes up the flavors.
FAQs
How long does Southwest Ranch Sauce last in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, this sauce keeps for up to 1 week in the refrigerator. Always give it a quick stir before serving.
Can I make Southwest Ranch Sauce ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator, which allows the flavors to blend beautifully (and deliciously)!
Can I make it spicier or milder?
Absolutely. Increase the cayenne or hot sauce for more heat, or reduce it for a milder, kid-friendly version.
Can I make Southwest Ranch Sauce without buttermilk?
Yes! You can substitute milk or half-and-half plus a splash of lemon juice or vinegar (about 1 teaspoon per 1/2 cup) to mimic the tanginess of buttermilk. Plain yogurt or sour cream also works for a thicker, creamy version. Keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less tangy or pourable depending on your substitute.
Can I use it as a salad dressing?
Yes! For a pourable dressing, thin it out with a little extra buttermilk, adding one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
How to Use Southwest Ranch Sauce
This versatile sauce is creamy, zesty, and slightly smoky, making it perfect for more than just wings. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
- As a dipping sauce: Perfect for chicken wings or crispy chicken tenders, fried shrimp, tortilla chips, french fries, or veggie sticks.
- On salads: Drizzle over a taco salad, grilled chicken salad, or a simple side salad for an extra flavor punch.
- In wraps and sandwiches: Spread inside a tortilla or on your favorite sandwich for a creamy, tangy kick.
- For drizzling: Use it over roasted vegetables, tacos, or even baked potatoes to add a Southwestern twist.
Pro tip: Adjust the thickness depending on use. Thin it with a little extra buttermilk for salads or keep it thicker for dipping.
How To Store Southwest Ranch Sauce
Proper storage keeps your sauce fresh, flavorful, and safe to enjoy:
Refrigerator: Store in a clean jar or airtight container. It will keep for up to 1 week. Give it a quick stir before using, as some separation may occur.
Freezer: While not ideal for texture, you can freeze Southwest Ranch for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator and whisk well before serving.
Tip: Label your container with the date so you know exactly when it was made; this helps keep your dips and dressings at their best!
Southwest Ranch Sauce {Buffalo Wild Wings Copycat}
Ingredients
- 1 cup (224 g) mayonnaise
- ½ cup (122.5 g) buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon ketchup
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, add mayonnaise and buttermilk. Whisk until smooth.
- Add hot sauce, ketchup, ranch seasoning, taco seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk until fully combined and creamy.*
- Transfer to a jar or an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.
- Serve over salads, in wraps, or as a dipping sauce for wings, fries, and more.
Notes
Did you make this recipe?
You can tag me at @iamhomesteader.
What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
This sauce is exactly what I was hoping for. It's creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of kick.
Elizabeth
This had more taco seasoning flavor than I expected, but I loved it!
Stephanie
I loved the smoky taco flavor. It would be so good on so many foods, not just wings.
Bella
This sauce is a keeper. I would use it on wings, as a salad dressing, and even as a dip for fresh veggies.
