Ranch seasoning is a popular spice blend that is commonly used to add flavor to dips, dressings, and other dishes. It typically contains a mixture of herbs, spices, and dried vegetables. The exact ingredients and proportions can vary between brands, but ranch packets typically contain around 1-3 tablespoons of seasoning.
Typical Ingredients in Ranch Seasoning
Here are some of the most common ingredients found in ranch seasoning packets:
- Dried parsley – Gives flavor and green flecks
- Dried dill – Provides herby, tangy flavor
- Garlic powder – Adds aroma and depth
- Onion powder – Provides flavor and aroma
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor
- Ground black pepper – Adds spice and heat
- Dried buttermilk powder – Contributes tanginess
- Monosodium glutamate (MSG) – Enhances umami taste
- Sugar – Balances out acidity and flavors
- Spices like mustard powder, celery seed, etc. – Extra flavor
The specific amounts of each ingredient can vary based on the brand. Some ranch packets have more herbs while others pack in extra spices. Buttermilk powder and MSG are also commonly added for even more tanginess and savoriness.
How Much Seasoning is in a Typical Ranch Packet?
A standard, single-serving ranch seasoning packet contains around:
- 1-2 teaspoons of dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried buttermilk powder
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon MSG (optional)
Adding up the approximate volumes of each ingredient, most ranch packets contain about 1-3 tablespoons of total seasoning blend.
Some larger ranch seasoning packets may contain up to around 1/4 cup of seasoning, while smaller “single-use” packets may have as little as 1 teaspoon. But the standard packet size you’ll find in most grocery stores has about 1-3 tablespoons total.
Weight of Ranch Seasoning per Packet
The weight of ranch seasoning in an average packet is around:
- 5-8 grams (0.2-0.3 oz)
Since it is composed almost entirely of lightweight dried herbs, spices, and powders, a packet of ranch seasoning weighs only 5-8 grams or 0.2-0.3 ounces on average.
Again, the exact weight can vary slightly depending on the specific brand and size of the packet. But the typical weight falls within this general range.
How to Use an Entire Packet of Ranch Seasoning
Here are some ideas for how to use up a whole packet of ranch seasoning:
Make Ranch Dressing
Mix an entire ranch packet with 1 cup mayonnaise and 1 cup buttermilk. Whisk until combined. Chill before serving over salads.
Season a Batch of Baked Potatoes
Rub an entire packet over 3-4 russet potatoes before baking. Brush with oil and bake until crispy and seasoned outside.
Coat Chicken Wings
Toss 1 pound of chicken wings in melted butter then coat with the entire packet of seasoning. Bake at 400°F until crispy.
Sprinkle on Popcorn
Pour a whole packet over 6-8 cups of freshly popped popcorn and toss to coat evenly.
Season Homemade Breadsticks
Stir an entire packet into 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil then brush over breadsticks before baking.
Season Veggie Dip
Mix a ranch packet into 16 oz. sour cream or Greek yogurt for veggie dip.
Bake Ranch Seasoned Potato Wedges
Toss potato wedges in oil then sprinkle with the entire packet. Bake at 425°F for 25-30 minutes until crispy.
Coat a Whole Chicken
Rub a whole chicken inside and out with melted butter. Coat evenly with the seasoning packet. Roast until fully cooked.
Tips for Using Leftover Ranch Packets
Here are some tips if you end up with leftover ranch seasoning that you only need to use a small portion of:
- Store tightly sealed in a cool, dry place to preserve freshness.
- Mix a small amount into sour cream or mayo for veggie dip.
- Sprinkle on salads, baked potatoes, roasted veggies.
- Make ranch flavored nuts by tossing with olive oil and seasoning.
- Use to season chicken, fish, or other proteins before cooking.
- Add to bread or pizza dough.
- Rub on corn on the cob before grilling.
Buying Ranch Seasoning Packets
Some brands of ranch seasoning packets to look for include:
- Hidden Valley
- McCormick
- Club House
- Good Seasons
- Spicely
- Shore Lunch
- Cavender’s
Ranch packets are sold in the spice section of most grocery stores, usually near the salad dressings or herbs and seasonings. The most common size is around 1-2 tablespoons per packet.
Some stores may also sell larger containers of ranch seasoning if you go through it quickly. Pricing is typically $1-3 per packet or $3-8 for a larger bottle.
Making Homemade Ranch Packets
You can easily make DIY ranch seasoning packets at home using:
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon buttermilk powder
Simply mix together the dried herbs and spices. Divide the mixture evenly among small plastic bags or containers. Seal tightly. Store in a cool spot until ready to use. Each homemade packet will have about 1-2 tablespoons total.
FAQs
Is there a difference between ranch packets and ranch dip mix?
There is little difference between ranch packets and ranch dip mixes. They both contain very similar blends of dried herbs and spices. The main difference is that dip mixes are designed to season at least 2 cups of dip rather than a single serving. So dip mixes contain around 2-4 tablespoons of seasoning total.
How long does an open ranch packet last?
An opened ranch packet will stay fresh for 6-12 months when stored in a sealed container in a cool, dry pantry. The dried herbs and spices will slowly lose potency over time but should retain good flavor and aroma if used within a year.
Can you use ranch packets to make ranch dressing?
Yes, you can use the seasoning from ranch packets to make homemade ranch dressing. Simply whisk 1 packet with 1 cup mayonnaise and 1 cup buttermilk. Let chill for 30 minutes for the flavors to blend.
What’s the difference between ranch and Italian dressing packets?
Ranch packets contain dried parsley, dill, garlic, onion, and other herbs common in ranch flavor. Italian packets have oregano, basil, garlic, and herbs found in Italian seasoning. Ranch is tangy while Italian is more robust.
Conclusion
Most ranch seasoning packets contain around 1-3 tablespoons total or about 5-8 grams in weight. The exact amount can vary based on the brand. But a typical packet has about 1 teaspoon each of parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and other herbs and spices that make up the classic ranch flavor profile. Ranch packets are versatile pantry staples that can add flavor to everything from dressings to dips, meats, veggies, and more.