Creamy Homemade Caesar Dressing – Classic, Garlicky, and Irresistible

Few things elevate a salad like a rich, creamy Caesar dressing. Made from scratch, this dressing is tangy, garlicky, and perfectly balanced — far superior to store-bought versions. Whipping up your own allows control over flavor, texture, and seasoning, creating a dressing that clings beautifully to crisp romaine and makes any salad feel like a restaurant-quality dish.

Whether you’re preparing a classic Caesar salad, drizzling it over roasted vegetables, or using it as a dip, this Creamy Homemade Caesar Dressing will quickly become your go-to recipe.

The Charm of Homemade Caesar Dressing

While many reach for bottled Caesar dressing, nothing compares to homemade. Fresh garlic, tangy lemon juice, and high-quality Parmesan combine with creamy mayonnaise to create a luscious sauce. Anchovy paste adds that subtle umami punch without being overpowering, while Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce contribute complexity.

The result is a dressing that’s versatile, easy to make, and far more flavorful than pre-made options. It’s thick, creamy, and clings perfectly to leafy greens, croutons, and protein additions like grilled chicken or shrimp.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 10 minutes.
• Customizable: Adjust garlic, lemon, or anchovy levels to taste.
• Fresh and natural: No preservatives or additives.
• Versatile: Use as a salad dressing, dip, or sauce for sandwiches.
• Crowd-pleasing: Perfect for family meals or entertaining.

Ingredients

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp anchovy paste (optional, for authentic flavor)
• 2–3 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Combine base ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovy paste until smooth.
2. Emulsify with olive oil:
   Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking constantly to create a creamy, slightly thick dressing.
3. Season:
   Taste and season with salt and pepper. Adjust lemon or garlic according to preference.
4. Serve or store:
   Use immediately to dress salads or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Creamy Homemade Caesar Dressing

A rich, garlicky, and tangy Caesar dressing made from scratch with mayonnaise, Parmesan, lemon, and anchovy paste, perfect for salads and dips.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Condiment, Dressing, Salad

Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Caesar Dressing

• 0.5 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese freshly grated
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice fresh
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 0.5 tsp anchovy paste optional
• 2-3 tbsp olive oil
• to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups

Method

 

1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and anchovy paste until smooth.
2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender. Adjust garlic and lemon to taste for personal preference.

Tips for Perfect Caesar Dressing

• Fresh Parmesan: Avoid pre-grated cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Garlic: For a milder flavor, roast the garlic before mixing.
• Anchovy paste: Essential for classic umami flavor, but optional for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Consistency: Adjust with olive oil or a splash of water to thin if needed.
• Blend for extra smoothness: Use a small blender or immersion blender for a silky dressing.

Variations

• Spicy Caesar: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
• Greek yogurt Caesar: Substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Vegan Caesar: Use vegan mayo and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil or parsley for a fresh twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Toss with crisp romaine, croutons, and shaved Parmesan for a classic Caesar salad.
• Use as a sauce for grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
• Serve as a dip with fresh veggie sticks or breadsticks.
• Drizzle over roasted potatoes or as a spread in sandwiches.

Fun Fact: The Caesar Salad Legacy

The Caesar salad, famously created by restaurateur Caesar Cardini in 1924, was originally made tableside in Tijuana, Mexico. Anchovies, garlic, and fresh lemon juice gave it the bold flavors we know today. Making your own creamy Caesar dressing preserves the spirit of this classic dish, with the freedom to tweak it to your taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Whisk before serving as ingredients may separate.
• Can be made in advance for parties or meal prep, just keep chilled until ready to use.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the fresh, garlicky punch of homemade Caesar dressing. Quick, creamy, and loaded with flavor, this dressing transforms any salad into a meal and adds richness to veggies, proteins, and sides. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never reach for bottled Caesar dressing again.

Enjoy the classic taste of Caesar salad, elevated by the satisfaction of a dressing made entirely by you.