Homemade Caesar Dressing Recipe

This homemade Caesar dressing recipe is easy to whip up and packed with delicious flavor. While store-bought dressings can be convenient, there’s something special about making your own salad dressing.

Caesar dressing with anchovies


With just a few simple ingredients with seriously bold flavors and very little effort, you’ll have a dressing that’s perfect for salads, dipping, and more, in under 10 minutes!

Caesar salad dressing is a creamy and flavorful dressing made from mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovies.

Of course, the anchovies can be omitted for a vegetarian version, but if you choose to use them, they’ll add a wonderful salty umami flavor to your salad.

All the ingredients are combined together and whisked until smooth and creamy.

The resulting dressing is rich and tangy with a slightly salty and garlicky taste that I find irresistible.

Ingredients for homemade Caesar dressing

  • Mayonnaise
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Minced garlic
  • Dijon mustard
  • Lemon juice
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Anchovies (optional)
Creamy Caesar dressing recipe


How to make homemade Caesar dressing

Start by preparing your ingredients. You will need mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, anchovies (optional), salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

Next, take a medium-sized bowl and add the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce to it.

If you like the taste of anchovies, you can add 1 teaspoon of mashed anchovies to the bowl. Anchovies are optional, but it adds an authentic flavor to the dressing.

Using a whisk or a fork, whisk all the ingredients together until you get a smooth and creamy texture.

Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure all the ingredients are mixed well.

Once everything is combined, taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

You can add more Parmesan cheese or lemon juice to enhance the flavors.

Once the dressing is seasoned to your liking, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

This step is essential because it will ensure that the flavors come together and the dressing becomes creamy and rich.

After 30 minutes, take the dressing out of the fridge and give it a good stir or shake to combine any separated ingredients. Your homemade Caesar dressing is now ready to be used.

DIY Caesar dressing


What to serve with homemade Caesar dressing

Since making Caesar salad dressing from scratch is so easy, you could absolutely make this sauce anytime you want.

Here are some options for what to serve with homemade Caesar dressing:

Caesar salad: Of course, the classic Caesar salad is a perfect match for homemade Caesar dressing.

Toss together crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese with the dressing for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Grilled chicken or shrimp: The tangy and creamy flavor of Caesar dressing pairs well with grilled chicken or shrimp.

Drizzle the dressing over the cooked meat or serve it on the side for dipping.

Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower are delicious when served with a drizzle of homemade Caesar dressing.

Sandwiches or wraps: Use Caesar dressing as a flavorful spread on sandwiches or wraps. It goes particularly well with grilled chicken, turkey, or even lamb.

Dip for veggies or chips: Caesar dressing also makes a great dip for raw vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers.

It’s one of my favorite snacks when I’m in the mood for something quick and easy to prepare. It’s also tasty with chips, pretzels, or crackers.

Homemade Caesar dressing no anchovies


Occasions to serve homemade Caesar dressing

Homemade Caesar dressing suits any meal from casual dinners or special events.

Here are some occasions where homemade Caesar dressing would be a great addition:

Family dinners: Homemade Caesar dressing is perfect for serving at family dinners, whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion.

It’s a crowd-pleaser and can be used to dress up a simple salad or add flavor to a main dish.

Dinner parties: Hosting a dinner party? Impress your guests by serving a Caesar salad with homemade dressing.

It’s a classic dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Outdoor barbecues: Caesar dressing is a great addition to grilled meats and vegetables, making it perfect for outdoor barbecues and picnics.

Serve it alongside a platter of grilled chicken or shrimp, or as a dip for veggies or chips.

Potlucks: If you’re attending a potluck, bring a salad with homemade Caesar dressing. It’s easy to transport and will be a hit with the crowd.

You may want to hold off on the anchovies though or serve them separately, because they may not be everyone’s favorite.

Work lunches: Looking for a way to liven up your work lunches? Pack a Caesar salad with homemade dressing.

It’s a delicious and healthy option that will keep you satisfied all afternoon.

Easy Caesar dressing recipe


How to store homemade Caesar dressing

Homemade Caesar dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Here’s how to store it properly: Transfer the dressing to an airtight container, preferably a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid that works well, and store it in the refrigerator.

Before using the dressing, give it a good stir or shake to combine any separated ingredients.

The dressing may thicken or separate when stored, but this is normal.

Your homemade Caesar salad dressing may not last as long as store-bought dressings that contain preservatives.

If the dressing looks or smells off, discard it immediately. It’s better to err on the side of caution and make a fresh batch, especially if it contains anchovies.

Caesar salad dressing recipe


Homemade Caesar Salad Dressing FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in Caesar dressing?

Use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise in Caesar dressing. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture will be slightly different.

Can I make Caesar dressing without anchovies?

Substitute it with Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or capers.

Can I store homemade Caesar dressing at room temperature?

I don’t recommend storing homemade Caesar dressing at room temperature. It should be refrigerated at all times to prevent the dressing from going bad.

Can I freeze homemade Caesar dressing?

No, as it may separate and become watery once thawed.

How can I make Caesar dressing vegan?

Substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and omit the anchovies. You can also use vegan mayonnaise as a substitute for regular mayonnaise.

Can I use a food processor or blender to make Caesar dressing?

You can use a food processor or blender to make this Caesar dressing. Just be sure not to over-blend the ingredients, as it can make the dressing too thin and watery.

What are some variations of Caesar dressing?

Some variations of this salad dressing include adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley, using lime juice instead of lemon juice, or adding a touch of honey for sweetness. You can also try using different types of cheese, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago, for a unique flavor.

This 10-minute Caesar dressing with its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and not-so-subtle hints of garlic and Parmesan cheese will make this dressing an instant favorite with your family and guests alike.

Homemade Caesar Dressing Recipe

This homemade Caesar dressing recipe has a creamy texture, tangy flavor, with hints of garlic and Parmesan cheese, and anchovies for extra umami.
Prep Time10 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon anchovies, mashed optional
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovies (if using) until smooth.
  • Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld.
  • When ready to serve, give the dressing a good stir or shake to combine any separated ingredients. Drizzle the dressing over your favorite salad or use it as a dip.

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