Homemade Russian Dressing, also known as aderezo ruso, is an American condiment made with mayonnaise, ketchup, and seasonings such as horseradish and onion.
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It is commonly used as a sandwich spread or salad dressing and is known for its zesty, slightly sweet flavor and distinctive pink color.
This Homemade Russian Dressing recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and comes together in minutes.
Made with mayonnaise, sour cream, chili sauce, and horseradish, it creates a creamy, tangy dressing that's perfect for sandwiches like Reuben Sandwich, as well as burgers, paninis, and salads.
Ingredients You'll Need
Note: Full ingredients and amounts are listed in the recipe card below.
- Mayonnaise: The base that provides creaminess and body to the dressing.
- Sour cream: Adds tanginess and lightens the texture; it can be substituted with mayonnaise.
- Chili sauce: Adds a slightly tangy, savory-sweet flavor and a deeper color; it can be substituted for ketchup.
- Dill pickle: Adds a bright, tangy bite and extra texture; it can be substituted with dill relish.
- Fresh horseradish: Provides gentle heat and depth; it can be substituted with prepared horseradish (about 1 tablespoon).
- Spanish onion: Adds a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor; it can be substituted with 1 heaping tablespoon finely minced shallot.
How to Make Homemade Russian Dressing
Note: Full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, chili sauce, sour cream, parsley, onion, pickle, lemon juice, horseradish, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning, if needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve, or for up to 4 days.
Hint: Let the Russian dressing rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and produces a smoother, more balanced taste.
Make Ahead & Freezing
Make-Ahead: This Russian dressing can be prepared 1 day in advance. Stir before serving and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended.
Camila's Tips & Variations
- Dressing too thick: Stir in a teaspoon of lemon juice or water to loosen the texture.
- Too sweet: Add a little extra horseradish or a splash of vinegar to balance the flavor.
- Too mild: Increase the horseradish slightly for more bite.
- Want more flavor: Use sweet heat pickles or add a teaspoon of their juice for a sweet, tangy kick.
- For sandwiches: Spread a thicker layer on paninis, burgers, or deli-style sandwiches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Russian dressing made of?
Russian dressing is typically made with mayonnaise, ketchup or chili sauce, relish, and seasonings.
Is Russian dressing the same as Thousand Island?
No. Russian dressing usually contains horseradish and has a sharper flavor, while Thousand Island dressing is sweeter and often includes chopped eggs.
Is Russian dressing actually Russian?
No. Russian dressing is American in origin. Despite its name, it was created in the United States and became popular as a condiment for sandwiches, especially Reuben sandwiches, and for salads.
Did Russian dressing originally contain caviar?
Some early versions included small amounts of caviar, which may have inspired the name. Modern Russian dressing typically does not contain caviar.
Can I make Russian dressing without horseradish?
Yes. If you omit horseradish, the dressing will be milder but still creamy and flavorful.
Why does my dressing taste too sweet?
Ketchup and relish add sweetness. Balance it by adding more horseradish, a splash of vinegar, or a little lemon juice.
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Recipe
Homemade Russian Dressing
Equipment
- Airtight container for storage
Ingredients
- ¾ cups mayonnaise , preferably Hellmann's
- ¼ cup plus 2 to 3 tablespoons chili sauce or ketchup
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 teaspoons parsley leaves , chopped
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon Spanish onion , minced
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon dill pickle , minced
- ½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon grated horseradish
- ¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, chili sauce, sour cream, parsley, onion, pickle, lemon juice, horseradish, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning, if needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve, or for up to 4 days.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate, calculated using standard data sources. Actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, preparation methods, and portion sizes. This information is for general reference only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dietary advice.
