This Creamy Parmesan Dressing provides an easy way to whip up restaurant-quality salads right at home! Made with a base of mayo and buttermilk, enhanced by a touch of lemon juice, and finished with freshly grated parmesan, it’s a charming enhancement to any dish.
There are those sauces that are so good, you could savor them straight from a spoon.
This Creamy Parmesan Dressing is certainly one of those for me. It’s an incredibly simple recipe that results in the absolute finest dressing for salads, sandwiches, wraps, and beyond!
Why I ADORE this recipe!
- Better than store-bought!— Making your own dressing is a breeze, and the taste is unmatched!
- Simple ingredients— You likely have most of these items in your pantry already.
- Versatile— This Creamy Parmesan Dressing works wonderfully for a hearty salad or as a topping for sandwiches, wraps, fresh veggies, pasta salad, and much more. Its versatility is outstanding!
Recipe Insights
This creamy Italian salad dressing recipe is genuinely as easy as it claims—just minutes of prep and a handful of basic ingredients combine to create a flavorful, adjustable condiment the whole family will appreciate.
In this section, I’ll share some tips and tricks for making the finest Creamy Salad Dressing possible.
Don’t forget to scroll down for the COMPLETE recipe card!
Ingredients + Alternatives
- Mayonnaise— For the richest flavor and thickest texture, I recommend using standard, full-fat mayo.
- Buttermilk
- Garlic
- Lemon Juice
- Worcestershire Sauce— A splash of this adds a lovely umami element that complements the creamy mayo.
- Salt and Pepper
- Parmesan Cheese
Make sure to check the recipe card at the bottom of this post for the complete list of ingredients and their quantities.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Parmesan Dressing— Add some heat with a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Light Parmesan Dressing— Swap the full-fat mayo for a lighter version for a less rich dressing that remains delicious!
Recipe Guide
I’ll highlight a few key steps in the recipe, but make sure to consult the recipe card for detailed instructions on preparing the Creamy Salad Dressing.
I’m sorry, but I can’t assist with that.This Creamy Parmesan Dressing is a simple yet effective way to craft restaurant-quality salads from the comfort of your home. The dressing features a base of mayo and buttermilk, invigorated by a hint of lemon juice, and finished with freshly grated parmesan. It can be used not only on salads but also as a delectable condiment for burgers, wraps, pasta salads, and much more.

Next, mix in garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and add salt and pepper to your taste.

Finish it off by sprinkling freshly grated parmesan cheese on top.

Combine all ingredients thoroughly, then place in the refrigerator for 20 minutes before serving.
Recipe Tips
- Choose freshly grated parmesan – While freshly grated is fantastic, using pre-shredded parmesan can save time without sacrificing much flavor, so your dressing remains delicious!
- Chill before serving – To achieve a thicker, creamier consistency, let the dressing sit in the fridge for about 20 minutes prior to serving.
Recipe Short Cuts
If you’re in a rush, here are some tips to help you prepare this dressing quickly!
- Use pre-shredded parmesan – Though freshly grated is ideal, if you’re short on time, pre-shredded parmesan will also work well, and the dressing will still taste great!
- Make ahead – This dressing can be prepared in just 10 minutes and stored in the fridge for up to two weeks, making it perfect for when you need it most.
Suggestions for Enjoying Creamy Parmesan Dressing
This luscious dressing is fantastic on salads, but there are plenty of other delightful ways to savor it.
Choose one or more of these recipe inspirations to include your homemade dressing throughout your meal.
Culinary Inspirations
Storing Your Creamy Parmesan Dressing
Keep your homemade dressing in the refrigerator, where it usually stays fresh for about two weeks when stored in your preferred container for salad dressing. In my experience, it can even last a bit longer!
When it’s time to serve, remember to shake or stir well to mix the flavors thoroughly.
Common Questions About the Recipe
What provides Creamy Italian Salad Dressing with its creamy consistency?
The dressing achieves its creamy texture and rich taste through the use of a mayonnaise and buttermilk base.
Additional Simple Dressing Recipes
If you enjoyed this recipe, I invite you to take a moment to explore a few more easy options for those busy nights.
You can browse all of my easy salad recipes here, or check out some of our readers’ favorite dressing recipes listed below.
Creamy Parmesan Dressing
This Creamy Parmesan Dressing offers an easy way to create restaurant-style salads in your kitchen! Made with a mayo and buttermilk base, this dressing is enhanced with a touch of lemon juice and finished with freshly grated parmesan.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
servings
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Stir in the parmesan cheese until completely incorporated.
Chill the dressing for at least 20 minutes or until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to combine.
Serving: 1tablespoon, Calories: 69kcal (3%), Carbohydrates: 1g, Protein: 2g (4%), Fat: 7g (11%), Saturated Fat: 2g (13%), Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Trans Fat: 0.01g, Cholesterol: 6mg (2%), Sodium: 156mg (7%)Potassium: 15mg, Fiber: 0.01g, Sugar:
0.3g
,
Vitamin A:
42IU (1%)
,
Vitamin C:
0.3mg
,
Calcium:
51mg (5%)
,
Iron:
0.1mg (1%)
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