Easy Homemade Caesar Salad Dressing: A Quick 20-Minute Restaurant-Style Recipe

Classic Homemade Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe

Creating the perfect caesar salad dressing at home is easier than you might think. This rich, creamy dressing combines the umami power of anchovies with fresh garlic, zesty lemon, and savory Parmesan cheese for a flavor that simply cannot be matched by store-bought alternatives. Once you master this recipe, you’ll never go back to bottled dressing again!

Why You’ll Love This Caesar Dressing Recipe

There’s something magical about a properly made caesar dressing that elevates even the simplest romaine lettuce into a gourmet experience. This homemade version:

• Tastes authentically rich – with the perfect balance of garlic, anchovy, and cheese
• Takes just 20 minutes – quick enough for weeknight dinners
• Uses simple ingredients – most are probably already in your kitchen
• Keeps well in the refrigerator – make once, enjoy all week
• Impresses guests – they’ll never believe you made it from scratch!

The Secret to Perfect Caesar Dressing

The key to an exceptional caesar dressing lies in the quality of your ingredients. Fresh garlic cloves (not pre-minced), real Parmesan cheese (not the shelf-stable kind in the green can), and yes, anchovies (don’t skip them!) create that distinctive flavor that makes this dressing so beloved worldwide.

Ingredients for the Ultimate Caesar Salad Dressing

• 6 cloves fresh garlic, peeled and divided
• ¾ cup good quality mayonnaise
• 5-6 anchovy fillets, finely minced (or 1½ tablespoons anchovy paste)
• 6 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon salt (optional, as anchovies are already salty)
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (if needed for consistency)

Equipment You’ll Need

• Food processor or blender (for the smoothest results)
• Garlic press (optional but helpful)
• Microplane or fine grater (for the Parmesan)
• Mason jar or airtight container (for storage)
• Measuring spoons and cups

How to Make Caesar Salad Dressing From Scratch

1. Gather all your ingredients and ensure they’re at room temperature for the best blending results.
2. Mince 4 of the garlic cloves very finely, or press them through a garlic press.
3. In a food processor or blender, combine the minced garlic, mayonnaise, and anchovy fillets.
4. Add the Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and salt (if using).
5. Pulse the mixture until smooth and well combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
6. If the dressing seems too thick, add olive oil 1 teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Take the remaining 2 garlic cloves and cut them in half. Use these to rub the inside of your serving bowl for extra flavor.
8. Transfer the finished dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tips for Perfect Caesar Dressing

• Don’t fear the anchovies! They dissolve completely and provide that distinctive umami flavor without fishiness.
• Room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly than cold ones.
• Adjust the garlic to your preference – true garlic lovers might even want to add more.
• For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise.
• Fresh lemon juice is non-negotiable – the bottled kind simply won’t provide the same bright flavor.

Serving Your Homemade Caesar Dressing

While this dressing is perfect with the classic combination of romaine lettuce, croutons, and extra Parmesan, don’t limit yourself! This versatile caesar dressing is also delicious:

• As a dip for fresh vegetables
• Drizzled over grilled chicken
• Tossed with pasta for a quick pasta salad
• Spread thinly on sandwiches instead of plain mayonnaise
• Mixed with a bit of extra olive oil as a marinade for chicken or shrimp

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Your homemade caesar dressing will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors actually improve after the first day, making this perfect for meal prep! Just give it a good shake or stir before using, as some separation may occur.

Nutrition Information

Each serving (about 2 tablespoons) contains approximately:

• Calories: 384 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Sodium: 549mg
• Sugar: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions About Caesar Dressing

Can I make caesar dressing without anchovies?

While traditional caesar dressing does include anchovies, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of capers or an extra teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for a similar umami flavor profile.

Is homemade caesar dressing safe to eat?

This recipe uses mayonnaise rather than raw eggs, making it safer and more accessible for home cooks while still delivering authentic flavor.

Why is my caesar dressing too thick?

Simply thin it with a little olive oil, lemon juice, or even a splash of water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I make this dressing dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to taste.

Whether you’re preparing a side salad for a family dinner or impressing guests with a gourmet starter, this caesar salad dressing recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen. The balance of creamy, savory, tangy, and umami flavors creates the perfect accompaniment to crisp romaine lettuce and crunchy croutons. Try it once, and bottled dressing will become a thing of the past!