The Best Homemade Russian Dressing Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making your own Russian dressing is a breeze, and it brings a homemade touch to your salads and sandwiches. This recipe is simple, yet packed with flavor that store-bought versions just can’t match. You’ll love how quick it is to whip up, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The creamy, tangy taste is perfect for adding a zesty kick to your favorite dishes. Plus, you can tweak it to suit your own taste, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen routine.
Recipe

Russian dressing is a classic condiment known for its tangy and slightly sweet flavor, perfect for salads, sandwiches, and dips. It’s easy to make at home with simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise and ketchup.
- Add the horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and paprika.
- Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled.
Notes:
- Adjust the amount of horseradish for more or less spice.
- For a smoother texture, blend the dressing using an immersion blender.
Equipment:
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Airtight container for storage
Time:
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: Makes about 3/4 cup, serving 4-6 people.
Nutrition
Russian dressing is a flavorful condiment that can add zest to your meals. While tasty, it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional profile.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (2 tbsp) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80 |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 5mg |
| Sodium | 220mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 4g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 0g |
What To Serve With It
I love spreading Russian dressing on hearty sandwiches like Reubens or turkey clubs, where its tangy flavor really shines. It’s also perfect tossed into salads, especially with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and crunchy croutons. Whether you’re stacking layers or tossing greens, this dressing adds a delicious twist to your meal.
Sandwich Pairings
When I’m making a sandwich with Russian dressing, I love thinking about the perfect pairings to make it shine. A classic Reuben is my go-to—corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut on rye, with that tangy dressing tying it all together. For something lighter, turkey and avocado on sourdough works wonders, letting the dressing’s sweetness balance the creaminess. Even a simple grilled cheese with sharp cheddar gets a boost from a swipe of Russian dressing. The key is balancing flavors—rich, salty, or smoky ingredients play best with its bold taste. Experiment, and you’ll find your favorite combo!
Salad Complements
The tangy, creamy kick of Russian dressing isn’t just for sandwiches—it’s a star in salads, too! I love tossing it with crisp iceberg lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers for a classic combo. It’s also fantastic with roasted veggies like beets or carrots for a heartier spin. I’ve even drizzled it over a grain bowl with quinoa and chickpeas—trust me, it’s delicious. For something fresh, try it with a spinach and avocado salad; the flavors meld perfectly. Don’t forget to sprinkle in some hard-boiled eggs or bacon bits for extra texture. Get creative—it’s a versatile dressing that elevates any salad!