Thousand Island Dressing Recipe

This classic Thousand Island dressing recipe comes together in just 5 minutes, delivering the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors.

Whether you’re drizzling it over a crisp salad, spreading it on sandwiches, or using it as a dipping sauce, this homemade version beats store-bought every time. With simple pantry ingredients and quick preparation, you’ll have a versatile condiment that adds a delightful punch to any dish.

Key Ingredients

• Mayonnaise: Base ingredient that provides creamy texture (1/2 cup)
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and smoothness (1/4 cup)
• Ketchup: Gives signature pink color and sweet-tangy taste (3 Tbsp)
• Sweet Pickle Relish: Adds crunch and sweetness (2 Tbsp)
• Red Onion: Provides fresh bite and color (2 Tbsp, finely diced)
• White Vinegar: Balances flavors with acidity (1 Tbsp)
• Sugar: Enhances overall taste (2 1/2 tsp)
• Garlic: Adds savory depth (1 clove, minced)
• Salt and Pepper: Season to your preference

Simple Steps to Perfect Dressing

1. Mix: Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl until well incorporated and smooth
2. Chill: Refrigerate for several hours to let flavors meld together perfectly
3. Store: Keep in an airtight container in refrigerator for up to one week
4. Serve: Enjoy as a salad dressing, sandwich spread, or dipping sauce

Storage Tips

This homemade Thousand Island dressing tastes even better after the flavors have time to blend together! Pop it in an airtight container and keep it in your fridge for up to a week.

Give it a quick stir before each use since the ingredients might settle a bit. The best part? You can make a big batch on Sunday and have it ready for all your meals throughout the week!

Serving Suggestions

This creamy, tangy dressing is so versatile! Try it as:

• A classic Reuben sandwich spread
• Burger sauce (makes any burger taste like a fancy restaurant version!)
• Salad dressing (perfect on wedge salads or chef salads)
• French fry dipping sauce
• Spreading on wraps or regular sandwiches
• Drizzling over taco salads

Easy Substitutions

Don’t have everything on hand? No problem! Here are some simple swaps:

• Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version
• Swap red onion with white onion or shallots
• Use dill pickle relish instead of sweet for a tangier taste
• Try apple cider vinegar in place of white vinegar
• Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener

Tips for Perfect Results

Want your dressing to taste amazing? Mince your garlic and onion super fine – this helps spread the flavor evenly. Let the dressing chill for at least 2 hours before serving – this gives all those yummy flavors time to mix together. Add salt and pepper bit by bit, tasting as you go. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!