Bacon Jalapeno Ranch

This Bacon Jalapeno Ranch recipe takes homemade ranch dressing to a whole new level! Starting with a homemade mayonnaise base with bacon grease, it's infused with classic ranch seasonings and the fresh kick of minced jalapeños. This creamy, flavorful dressing is perfect for drizzling over salads, dipping your favorite veggies, or as a spread for sandwiches and wraps.

Yield: About 1 ½ cups
Prep Time: About 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes, optional for best flavor
Special Equipment: Blender or food processor

Ingredients

• ½ cup melted bacon grease, cooled yet still liquid

• ½ cup canola oil

• 1 large egg, at room temperature

• 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

• ½ tsp fine sea salt

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp dried dill weed

• Optional: 1 tsp fresh dill

• 1 tsp dried chives

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ - ¾ cup buttermilk, start with ½ cup, add more to achieve desired consistency

• 1-2 medium fresh jalapeños, finely minced, seeds and ribs removed for less heat, if desired

• ½ tsp black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Mayo Base: In the cup of an immersion blender or the bowl of a food processor, combine the room temperature egg, salt, vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Combine the bacon grease and oil in a container with a spout. With the immersion blender on low and pressed to the bottom, or the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the grease and oil in a very thin, steady stream. Continue blending until the mixture is thick and emulsified into a creamy mayonnaise. This process usually takes 30 seconds to 1 minute.

2. Add Ranch and Jalapenos: Transfer the homemade mayo to a medium bowl. Gradually whisk in ½ cup of buttermilk until smooth. Stir in the finely minced jalapeños, dill weed, dried chives, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

3. Taste and Adjust: Whisk in additional buttermilk if needed, 1 tablespoon at a time, until your desired ranch consistency is reached. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired. For best flavor, chill at least 30 minutes. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days.