This Homemade Creamy Caesar Dressing is rich, tangy, and packed with bold, savory flavor—everything a Caesar dressing should be. Made with simple pantry staples like mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh garlic, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and Worcestershire sauce, it’s a quick and satisfying upgrade to any salad or grilled dish. Whether tossed with crisp romaine, spooned over grilled chicken, or used as a zesty dip, this dressing adds unmistakable depth and creaminess.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy Caesar dressing is a no-fuss, no-blender-required recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just minutes. With no raw egg required, it’s a safer and more convenient version of the classic, yet it still brings all the bold umami and creamy richness you expect. It’s naturally gluten-free, low in carbs, and stores beautifully for quick weekday meals or make-ahead prep.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
directions
- In a medium mixing bowl or blender, combine the mayonnaise, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Blend until smooth and creamy using a whisk, immersion blender, or standard blender.
- Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld.
- Use within 5 days for best freshness and flavor.
Servings and timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings (approximately 2 tablespoons each)
- Calories per serving: 130 kcal
Variations
- Anchovy Option: Add 1–2 anchovy fillets or 1 teaspoon anchovy paste for a more traditional Caesar flavor.
- Greek Yogurt Base: Substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use vegan mayonnaise and omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Extra Tangy: Add an extra splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of white wine vinegar for a brighter finish.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce for added heat.
storage/reheating
Store this Caesar dressing in an airtight container or glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir or shake well before each use. This dressing is not suitable for freezing or reheating, as it is meant to be served cold.
FAQs
What ingredients are in creamy Caesar dressing?
Creamy Caesar dressing typically includes mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Is Caesar dressing always creamy?
No, traditional Caesar dressing can be made without mayonnaise for a thinner, emulsified version using raw egg yolks and oil.
Can I make this dressing without anchovies?
Yes, this recipe is anchovy-free but still delivers classic Caesar flavor using Worcestershire sauce for umami depth.
What kind of mayonnaise works best?
A high-quality full-fat mayonnaise provides the creamiest texture and richest taste.
Is this Caesar dressing gluten-free?
Yes, all listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your Worcestershire sauce to be sure.
Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan is preferred for its finer texture and better melt-in quality, but pre-shredded can be used if needed.
Can I make this dressing in advance?
Absolutely. The flavor improves as it chills, making it perfect for prepping ahead of time.
How do I thin the dressing?
Add a small splash of milk, water, or extra lemon juice to reach your desired consistency.
Can I use this as a dip?
Yes, it works well as a dip for vegetables, chicken tenders, or even roasted potatoes.
Is this dressing low-carb?
Yes, this Caesar dressing is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for keto and low-carb diets.
Conclusion
This Homemade Creamy Caesar Dressing brings the bold, tangy, and savory elements you love into a simple, no-fuss recipe. With its thick, velvety texture and balanced flavor, it’s an ideal addition to salads, grain bowls, and more. Skip the store-bought versions and make this fresh dressing in just minutes—you’ll taste the difference in every creamy bite.
Print
Homemade Creamy Caesar Dressing
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings (about 2 tbsp each)
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Homemade Creamy Caesar Dressing is a rich and tangy salad essential made with mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese. This quick and easy dressing is perfect for tossing with romaine, drizzling over grilled chicken, or using as a savory dip—better than store-bought every time!
Ingredients
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/4 cup olive oil
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1 clove garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
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2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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In a mixing bowl or blender, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
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Blend or whisk until fully smooth and creamy.
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Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
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Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
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Store in an airtight container and use within 5 days.
Notes
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For a more traditional Caesar flavor, add a mashed anchovy or a teaspoon of anchovy paste.
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Adjust consistency with a splash of water or milk if needed.
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Perfect as a dip for veggies or a spread for wraps and sandwiches.
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Always refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- chill time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dressing / Sauce
- Method: No-Cook / Blended
- Cuisine: American