This spicy Buffalo Ranch Dip is a tasty mix of creamy ranch and zesty Buffalo sauce. Perfect for parties or game day, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with chips and veggies!
I love serving this dip with crunchy celery sticks—adds a nice twist! Just be ready for a refill, because it disappears fast! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This brings a rich and creamy base to the dip. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt instead. It adds a nice tang while keeping the dip creamy!
Sour Cream: Regular sour cream works well, but you can substitute with plain yogurt for a healthier choice or use dairy-free sour cream if needed.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic, but you can use any brand that you enjoy. Don’t have it? Try using sriracha for a different kick, or for milder flavors, use barbecue sauce instead.
Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese: I prefer adding a mix for flavor and texture. For a twist, you can swap some cheddar for pepper jack cheese for an extra kick! Vegan cheese alternatives are also a great substitute.
Green Onions: These add freshness and a slight crunch. If you don’t have them on hand, chives work nicely too.
How Do I Make Sure My Buffalo Ranch Dip is Smooth and Creamy?
To get a smooth texture, it’s crucial to properly mix the ingredients. Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure your cream cheese is softened at room temperature. This makes blending much easier.
- When mixing, use a sturdy spatula or a hand mixer for a smooth consistency without lumps.
- Paddle until the mixture is uniform before adding the cheeses and seasonings to avoid over-mixing later on.
- Don’t skip the baking! This helps meld the flavors together and gives a nice creamy texture that makes the dip irresistible.
Letting it cool slightly before serving helps avoid burning your mouth! Enjoy this flavorful dip with your favorite dippers and have fun!
Buffalo Ranch Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat
- For serving: celery sticks and potato chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Buffalo Ranch Dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be ready to serve in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your dip mixture is complete.
2. Mix the Base:
In a medium bowl, add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, ranch dressing, and Buffalo wing sauce. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Make sure there are no lumps!
3. Add the Cheeses and Seasoning:
Next, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and if you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Carefully transfer the mixture into an oven-safe baking dish or bowl. Use a spatula to smooth out the top. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle some additional shredded cheddar cheese on top.
5. Bake It Up:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the dip is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven carefully (it will be hot!) and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with some extra chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Time to dig in! Serve your warm Buffalo Ranch Dip with crunchy celery sticks and potato chips for dipping. Enjoy the tasty mixture with your friends at your next gathering!
This warm, creamy Buffalo Ranch Dip is sure to be a hit! Gather around and enjoy this delightful dip that everyone loves.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake it right before serving. If it’s coming straight from the fridge, you might need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What Should I Do if My Dip is Too Thick?
If your dip seems too thick before baking, feel free to add a splash of milk or additional ranch dressing to loosen it up. Just mix it in until you reach your desired consistency!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds for even heating.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Definitely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your personal preference. Pepper jack is great for a spicy kick, or you could use Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. Just remember to keep the total quantity of cheese about the same!
