Cheese And Ranch: Perfect Pairing For A Delicious Dip

Ranch dressing is a popular salad dressing that can be paired with several types of cheese. While some cheeses are more commonly used, such as cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, there are many other options to explore. For instance, goat cheese, blue cheese, feta, and Swiss cheese can all complement the flavour of ranch dressing. Additionally, cottage cheese can be used as a base for a healthy, creamy ranch dressing.

Ranch and cheese recipes

Ranch dressing is one of the most popular salad dressings, but it also goes great with cheese. Here are some recipe ideas that combine ranch and cheese:

Ranch Grilled Cheese

This recipe adds a zesty kick to the classic grilled cheese sandwich by including ranch seasoning in the mix.

Ingredients:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Monterey Jack cheese
• Sandwich bread (white, wheat, or sourdough)
• Butter, softened
• Hidden Valley Original Ranch Seasoning & Salad Dressing Mix Shaker

Instructions:

• Beat the cream cheese and mayonnaise until well-combined and lightened.
• Stir in the cheese and ranch seasoning mix.
• Butter one side of each piece of bread.
• Spread the cheese mixture on the non-buttered side of six slices of bread, and cover with the remaining bread, buttered-side out.
• Cook the sandwiches in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Creamy Ranch Mac and Cheese

This recipe combines the classic comfort food of mac and cheese with the delicious flavour of ranch.

Ingredients:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Green onions, chopped
• Ranch salad dressing mix
• Assorted crackers and/or fresh vegetables

Instructions:

• Beat the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
• Stir in the cheddar cheese, onions, and dressing mix.
• Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
• Serve with crackers and/or vegetables.

Cottage Cheese Ranch Dressing

This recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional ranch dressing, as it uses cottage cheese as a base. It's high in protein and low in calories.

Ingredients:

• Cottage cheese
• Sour cream
• Dried chives
• Dried parsley
• Dried dill weed
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Ground black pepper
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions:

• Place all ingredients in a food processor or blender and process until smooth and creamy.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
• Serve as a salad dressing, veggie dip, or spread for sandwiches or wraps.

Ranch Dressing Cheese Log

This recipe is a creative way to serve cheese and crackers, perfect for a cocktail party or appetizer.

Ingredients:

• Cream cheese, room temperature
• Buttermilk, well shaken
• Ranch dressing mix
• Cheddar cheese, grated, room temperature
• Pecans, roughly chopped
• Crackers or bagel chips, for serving

Instructions:

• Beat together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, buttermilk, and dressing mix.
• Add the cheddar cheese and continue beating until thoroughly blended.
• Wrap the mixture in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for 30 minutes.
• Shape the wrapped cheese mixture into a log.
• Spread the pecans out on a baking sheet or wax paper and roll the cheese log in the nuts to coat.
• Serve with crackers or bagel chips.

Cheddar, mozzarella and Parmesan

Cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan are all excellent choices to pair with ranch dressing. Here are some ideas for each:

Cheddar and Ranch

Cheddar is a popular choice to pair with ranch dressing. Young cheddar, in particular, is quite mild, creamy, and smooth, making it a versatile cheese that can be used in various recipes. One classic example is a cheddar ranch chicken wrap. Simply add some shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing to a tortilla wrap. If you're looking for something heartier, try a casserole by baking chicken, cheddar, ranch, and your favorite vegetables in a baking dish.

You can also try making a creamy ranch mac and cheese or a cheddar cheese spread to enjoy with crackers or vegetables. Another creative option is to make an ultimate ranch grilled cheese sandwich. Mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and ranch seasoning, then spread the mixture on bread and grill it to perfection.

Mozzarella and Ranch

Mozzarella is milky, grassy, and floral, making it a good match for ranch dressing. It can help balance out the richness of the ranch, and it adds moisture to your dish. Try making a grilled cheese sandwich, quesadilla, or wrap with mozzarella and ranch. If you're feeling adventurous, make your own mozzarella sticks and dip them in ranch dressing!

Parmesan and Ranch

Parmesan is rich, tangy, nutty, and sharp, making it a great pairing with ranch. The creaminess of the ranch balances out the sharpness of the Parmesan, and they complement each other well. Parmesan is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. Try using it as a topping for salads, soups, or pasta dishes. It's also delicious on its own or in savory baked goods like muffins and biscuits.

So, whether you choose cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan, you're sure to enjoy a delicious combination with ranch dressing!

Goat and blue cheese

Goat cheese has a mild, earthy, buttery, and tart flavour. It's a versatile cheese that works in both sweet and savoury dishes. Its subtlety means it won't overpower ranch dressing, making it a great pairing.

Some recipes that use both goat cheese and ranch dressing include salads, wraps, pizzas, and dips. For example, you could make a goat cheese and bacon salad with ranch dressing, a grilled chicken wrap with goat cheese and ranch, or a white pizza with goat cheese, spinach, and mushrooms.

Blue cheese is pungent, salty, and sharp, making it another great match for ranch dressing. The creaminess of the ranch balances out the sharpness of the blue cheese.

You can use blue cheese and ranch dressing as a dip for raw vegetables or chips, or add them to a salad. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even use them in a grilled cheese sandwich.

Cream cheese and ranch

Dips and Spreads

A basic recipe for a cream cheese and ranch dip includes cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing mix. You can also add in chopped cooked bacon, green onions, or other herbs and spices to taste.

Baked Potatoes

Pizzas

The combination can be used as a sauce for snack pizzas. You can also add in some shredded cheese and vegetables for a heartier pizza.

Salads

Snacks

In addition to the above, cream cheese and ranch can be used as a snack on its own. Spread the mixture on a bagel or English muffin, or use it as a dip for pretzels, chips, or vegetables.

Cottage cheese ranch

Ingredients

To make cottage cheese ranch, you only need two essential ingredients: cottage cheese and ranch seasoning mix. For the cottage cheese, you can use 4%, 2%, or lite cottage cheese, depending on your preference and dietary needs. The higher the fat content, the thicker your ranch dressing will be. For the ranch seasoning mix, you can use a store-bought packet or make your own blend with herbs and spices. Some recipes also call for adding a splash of milk or water to thin out the dressing, especially if you're using higher-fat cottage cheese.

Preparation

Preparing cottage cheese ranch is quick and easy. Simply add the cottage cheese and ranch seasoning mix to a blender or food processor. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take around 1-2 minutes. You can adjust the consistency by adding milk or water if it becomes too thick. Once blended, chill the dressing in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. It's best served cold, and the flavors will develop more as it chills.

Serving Suggestions

• Salad dressing: Drizzle it over your favorite salad greens and vegetables.
• Veggie dip: Dip raw vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, or cauliflower into the creamy ranch.
• Sandwiches and wraps: Spread it on sandwiches or wraps for added flavor.
• Chicken dishes: Use it as a topping for chicken tenders or mix it into chicken salad.
• Pizza: Dip your pizza slices or use it as a pizza base for a unique flavor.
• Dips and chips: Make it thicker by adding less milk or water, and use it as a dip for chips and crackers.
• Burger topping: Add a creamy twist to your burgers with this ranch.

Storage

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 51
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 1g
• Sodium: 493mg
• Potassium: 49mg

So, if you're looking for a tasty and healthier alternative to traditional ranch dressing, cottage cheese ranch is a great option! It's easy to make, versatile, and packed with protein. Give it a try and enjoy the creamy, tangy goodness!

Frequently asked questions