Olive Garden is renowned for its delicious and flavorful dressings that elevate their salads, pasta dishes, and even appetizers.
Whether it’s the creamy richness of their famous Caesar or the tangy bite of their balsamic vinaigrette, these dressings are a key element of the restaurant’s iconic dishes.
But what if you could recreate these tasty dressings at home?
In this blog post, we’re going to share over 15 homemade Olive Garden-inspired dressing recipes that are not only easy to make but also packed with the same bold flavors you love.
From tangy vinaigrettes to creamy favorites, you’ll discover the secret to making these beloved dressings in your very own kitchen.
Get ready to take your salads, sandwiches, and even grilled dishes to the next level with these delicious, versatile dressings!
15+ Delectable Olive Garden Dressing Recipes You Can Make at Home
Making your own Olive Garden-inspired dressings at home is a fun and rewarding way to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors anytime you want.
With these 15+ recipes, you’ll have a variety of dressings at your disposal to complement any dish, whether you’re tossing a fresh salad, marinating meats, or using them as dipping sauces.
The best part? These dressings are simple to make and can be customized to suit your taste.
So, whether you love creamy and tangy or light and zesty, there’s something for everyone in this collection of homemade Olive Garden dressings.
Enjoy the flavors of your favorite restaurant in the comfort of your own home!
Olive Garden Signature Salad Dressing
This creamy, tangy Olive Garden salad dressing is a classic favorite that combines a unique blend of Italian seasonings, parmesan cheese, and a subtle hint of garlic. It’s perfect for drizzling over a fresh salad or using as a dip for breadsticks. With this homemade version, you can enjoy the taste of the restaurant’s famous dressing any time you want.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, vinegar, olive oil, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the mixture and whisk until smooth.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and mix well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve over your favorite salad, or enjoy as a dip for breadsticks.
This homemade Olive Garden-style dressing is a must-try for anyone who enjoys the restaurant’s signature taste. The creamy texture paired with the zesty Italian seasoning gives a refreshing kick to any salad. Plus, it’s versatile enough to use for dipping or drizzling over other dishes like roasted vegetables or grilled meats. Make it ahead and keep it in the fridge for a quick and easy way to elevate any meal.
Olive Garden Italian Dressing (Vinaigrette Style)
For those who prefer a lighter, tangy vinaigrette version of Olive Garden dressing, this recipe is a perfect fit. With its balanced mix of red wine vinegar, olive oil, and fresh herbs, this dressing offers a refreshing alternative that’s just as flavorful as the creamy counterpart. Perfect for salads or as a marinade for grilled chicken or vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and sugar until well combined.
- Add garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to incorporate all the seasonings.
- Add Parmesan cheese and whisk again until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed by adding more salt or vinegar to suit your preference.
- Store the dressing in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop.
This Italian vinaigrette-style dressing brings the perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors to your salad, making it a lighter option without sacrificing taste. The Parmesan cheese adds a rich depth, and the fresh herbs give it a delightful, authentic Italian flair. This dressing can also double as a marinade for meats or veggies, giving you a versatile, go-to recipe for many meals.
Olive Garden Creamy Parmesan Basil Dressing
If you’re craving a creamy, herb-infused dressing with a burst of fresh basil, this Olive Garden-inspired recipe is exactly what you need. The Parmesan cheese and basil work together to create a rich, savory dressing that’s smooth and satisfying. It’s perfect for creamy pasta salads, as a topping for grilled chicken, or as a side dip for breadsticks.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together the sour cream and mayonnaise until smooth and well-combined.
- Add Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, white wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk the ingredients together until the dressing is creamy and fully blended.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar if necessary.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.
This creamy Parmesan basil dressing brings a taste of Italy to your table with its fresh basil and tangy sour cream base. The Parmesan cheese adds richness while the basil provides a fragrant, herbal note. It’s an excellent choice for those who love a more indulgent dressing with bold flavors. Whether it’s paired with a crisp green salad or used to enhance a pasta dish, this dressing will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Olive Garden Creamy Caesar Dressing
If you love the classic Caesar salad, this creamy Olive Garden-inspired Caesar dressing is the recipe you need. Rich, creamy, and full of savory flavors, this dressing is a perfect balance of Parmesan cheese, anchovies, and garlic. It’s ideal for drizzling over crisp romaine lettuce, and it also makes a great dip for fresh vegetables or crispy chicken strips.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese.
- Add lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, anchovy paste, black pepper, and salt.
- Whisk all the ingredients together until the dressing is smooth and well-blended.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more lemon juice or salt for extra tang.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the flavors to come together before serving.
This creamy Caesar dressing brings the restaurant-quality taste of Olive Garden straight to your home. The combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, and Parmesan gives it a rich, velvety texture, while the anchovy paste and garlic infuse the dressing with deep umami flavors. It’s perfect for tossing with a simple Caesar salad or using as a dip for crunchy vegetables. Whip it up ahead of time, and you’ll have a flavorful dressing ready whenever you need it.
Olive Garden Roasted Red Pepper Dressing
For something a little different, try this vibrant roasted red pepper dressing, inspired by the flavors you’d find at Olive Garden. The sweetness of roasted red peppers combined with a hint of garlic and tangy vinegar makes this dressing perfect for adding depth to your salads. It’s also great as a sauce for grilled chicken or vegetables, giving your meals a burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (from a jar or homemade)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a blender or food processor, combine roasted red peppers, olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and smoked paprika.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Transfer to a jar or bottle and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
This roasted red pepper dressing is a vibrant, flavorful option for anyone who enjoys a slightly sweet and smoky taste. It’s perfect for pairing with simple green salads, but also works wonders as a marinade or dipping sauce for grilled meats and vegetables. The combination of red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and roasted peppers creates a refreshing yet rich dressing that adds color and flavor to any dish. Make a batch ahead and enjoy its versatility throughout the week.
Olive Garden Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing
For fans of balsamic flavors, this Olive Garden-inspired balsamic vinaigrette is a perfect match. With its tangy balsamic vinegar and smooth olive oil base, this dressing is slightly sweet with a rich, zesty kick. It’s perfect for drizzling over salads, grilled vegetables, or even used as a marinade for meats.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
- Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the mixture and whisk again.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional honey for sweetness or vinegar for more acidity.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to combine.
This balsamic vinaigrette dressing brings a rich, tangy flavor to any dish, reminiscent of the delicious dressings served at Olive Garden. The slight sweetness of honey or sugar balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar, while the Dijon mustard helps to emulsify the dressing, making it smooth and creamy. Whether you’re topping a fresh garden salad or using it as a marinade for meats, this dressing will enhance any meal with its well-rounded flavor. Enjoy it as a versatile addition to your kitchen.
Olive Garden Lemon Herb Dressing
This fresh and zesty Olive Garden-inspired lemon herb dressing combines the bright flavors of lemon with a variety of aromatic herbs. It’s light yet flavorful, perfect for drizzling over a garden salad, pairing with grilled chicken, or serving as a tangy dip for fresh vegetables. The lemony zing and herbaceous undertones make this dressing a refreshing addition to any dish.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth and well-combined.
- Add minced garlic, dried basil, and oregano to the mixture, stirring to incorporate.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
This lemon herb dressing offers a delightful balance of acidity from the lemon and savory herbal notes, making it an excellent choice for light, refreshing salads. The Dijon mustard helps bind the ingredients together while providing a slight tang that complements the honey’s sweetness. It’s perfect for enhancing everything from simple salads to grilled fish or chicken, providing a burst of freshness and flavor that will elevate your meals.
Olive Garden Sweet Italian Dressing
If you love the sweet and savory taste of Olive Garden’s classic Sweet Italian dressing, this recipe is a great way to bring that flavor into your home. With a touch of sweetness balanced by tangy vinegar and Italian seasonings, this dressing is perfect for your favorite salad or as a flavorful marinade for meats and vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, white vinegar, and honey (or sugar).
- Stir in dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk until the dressing is well-blended and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more honey or vinegar depending on your desired sweetness or acidity.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
This sweet Italian dressing offers the perfect balance of tangy vinegar and sweet honey, with an aromatic blend of Italian seasonings. The result is a versatile dressing that can be used on salads, pasta salads, or even as a marinade for grilled chicken or vegetables. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings the flavors of Olive Garden right to your kitchen, enhancing any dish with its vibrant, zesty, and sweet profile.
Olive Garden Garlic Parmesan Dressing
This creamy, savory Garlic Parmesan dressing is packed with flavor and has a perfect balance of rich Parmesan cheese, garlic, and creamy texture. It’s an excellent choice for topping fresh salads, but it also makes an amazing dip for breadsticks or vegetables. This homemade version is just as tasty as the restaurant’s and will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, whisking until all ingredients are well-combined.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.
- Serve as a dressing over salads or as a dip for breadsticks and veggies.
This Garlic Parmesan dressing is creamy, bold, and bursting with savory flavors. The richness of the Parmesan cheese combined with the garlic gives this dressing its signature taste, while the sour cream adds a smooth, velvety texture. It’s perfect for a classic Caesar-style salad, or for pairing with roasted vegetables, pasta salads, or even grilled meats. It’s a dressing that adds comfort and flavor to any dish, making it a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Olive Garden Creamy Italian Dressing
This creamy Italian dressing combines the bold flavors of Italian herbs with a smooth, creamy texture. It’s tangy and savory, with a slight sweetness, making it a versatile dressing for salads, pasta dishes, and even as a marinade for chicken or vegetables. Inspired by Olive Garden’s famous version, this homemade recipe is a great way to add a burst of flavor to your meals.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, and red wine vinegar until smooth.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, whisking until everything is well-blended.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
This creamy Italian dressing is a perfect blend of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, making it a versatile addition to your salad arsenal. The rich mayonnaise base gives it a smooth, creamy texture, while the red wine vinegar and Italian seasoning bring an authentic Mediterranean flair. It’s also great as a marinade for grilled vegetables or chicken, making it a truly multi-purpose dressing that’s sure to enhance any dish.
Olive Garden Spicy Italian Dressing
For those who enjoy a bit of heat with their salad, this spicy Italian dressing is the perfect solution. Combining the flavors of traditional Italian herbs with a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, this dressing is perfect for adding a kick to any salad or pasta dish. Inspired by the bold flavors of Olive Garden’s Spicy Italian dressing, this homemade version is packed with flavor and heat.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Add the dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic, stirring to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
This spicy Italian dressing packs a flavorful punch, with the perfect balance of heat from red pepper flakes and aromatic herbs. The Dijon mustard adds a slight tang, while the olive oil and vinegar create a smooth base that’s perfect for salads or drizzling over pasta. It’s ideal for those who love a little extra spice in their meals, and it works wonderfully as a zesty marinade for grilled meats or vegetables. Add this spicy twist to your recipes for an exciting burst of flavor.
Olive Garden Buttermilk Ranch Dressing
Rich, creamy, and packed with herbs, this buttermilk ranch dressing is a fan favorite at Olive Garden, and now you can make it at home. The tangy buttermilk adds depth of flavor, while the fresh herbs and garlic make it the perfect dressing for salads, dipping sauces, or even as a topping for baked potatoes and grilled meats. This easy recipe provides all the creamy goodness you love from ranch with a slight kick from fresh ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, mayonnaise, and sour cream, whisking until smooth and well-blended.
- Stir in the chopped dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon juice (if using).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to come together and develop.
This buttermilk ranch dressing is the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and herbaceous flavors. The buttermilk adds a smooth, slightly tangy richness, while the fresh dill and garlic create a vibrant, savory depth. Whether you’re drizzling it over a crisp salad, dipping crispy chicken tenders, or using it as a topping for roasted vegetables, this homemade ranch dressing will elevate any dish. It’s an easy-to-make and crowd-pleasing dressing that brings a taste of Olive Garden right into your home.
Olive Garden Caesar Dressing
A creamy and rich dressing, this Caesar-inspired version from Olive Garden adds a robust, savory flavor to any salad. It’s made with Parmesan cheese, anchovies, and garlic, creating a tangy yet smooth dressing that pairs perfectly with crispy romaine lettuce. You can also use this dressing to top grilled chicken or as a dip for crispy breadsticks. This homemade Caesar dressing is both easy to make and full of bold flavors that will bring your salads to the next level.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional, for authentic flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, minced garlic, anchovy paste (if using), and Worcestershire sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Toss with Romaine lettuce and croutons for a classic Caesar salad, or use as a dip for veggies and bread.
This Caesar dressing combines all the classic flavors you love from the famous Olive Garden version, from the creamy base of mayonnaise to the bold garlic and Parmesan. The anchovy paste and Worcestershire sauce bring authentic umami and depth to the dressing, making it a perfect addition to your homemade Caesar salads. Its versatility also makes it a fantastic dip for breadsticks, grilled chicken, or vegetables, ensuring it’s a well-loved dressing in your kitchen.
Olive Garden Balsamic Vinaigrette
For those who prefer a more tangy and acidic option, this balsamic vinaigrette inspired by Olive Garden is the perfect solution. Made with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, this dressing is rich in flavor and works wonderfully on fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or even as a marinade for meats. The addition of honey adds a subtle sweetness that balances the tang of the vinegar, while garlic and Dijon mustard round out the flavor profile, creating a zesty and well-rounded dressing.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth and well-combined.
- Stir in minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Whisk again to ensure the dressing is fully blended.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
This tangy and flavorful balsamic vinaigrette is perfect for those who appreciate a vinaigrette with a rich depth of flavor. The balsamic vinegar provides an intense acidity, which is nicely balanced by the honey’s sweetness and the savory garlic. It’s ideal for drizzling over leafy greens, but also makes a great marinade for grilled vegetables or meats. This dressing will quickly become a staple for anyone looking for a light yet bold addition to their meals.
Olive Garden Thousand Island Dressing
This creamy and tangy dressing is a delicious classic with a modern twist. Olive Garden’s Thousand Island dressing combines mayonnaise and ketchup with a variety of spices to create a creamy, tangy base. It’s packed with flavor and works wonderfully as a salad dressing, dip, or even as a topping for burgers or sandwiches. With its sweet and tangy notes, this homemade version offers all the charm of the original while being easy to prepare and customize.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and ketchup until smooth.
- Stir in apple cider vinegar, sweet pickle relish, Dijon mustard, and onion powder.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and whisk until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
This homemade Thousand Island dressing is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy. The sweetness of the pickle relish complements the richness of the mayonnaise and the tang from the vinegar and ketchup. Whether you’re using it on a salad, as a dip for fries, or spreading it on a sandwich, this dressing adds a classic, flavorful touch to any dish. Its simplicity and versatility make it a great addition to your homemade dressing collection.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!