Dinner

Classic Homemade Caesar Dressing Recipe

Byluca Carter December 12, 2025December 12, 2025

Introduction

This classic homemade Caesar dressing is rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors. Made from simple pantry ingredients, it’s the perfect way to elevate your Caesar salad or use as a zesty dip.

A clear glass jar filled with creamy, pale off-white dressing speckled with small green herb bits is centered in the image, with a wooden spoon lifting some of the thick sauce above the jar’s wide opening, dripping back slowly. Surrounding the jar are unevenly cut golden-brown croutons with crunchy texture and bits of green herbs on them. Behind the jar, a bunch of fresh, dark green leafy kale with a textured surface adds color and freshness. The entire scene rests on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, finely grated

1 ½ teaspoons anchovy paste
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

⅓ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

1–2 teaspoons water (optional, to thin if needed)

Instructions

Step 1: Grate or finely mince the garlic and mix it with the anchovy paste until smooth.
Step 2: Whisk in the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.

Step 3: Add the mayonnaise and fresh lemon juice, then whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 6: If the dressing is too thick, add a little water and whisk again to reach desired consistency.
Step 7: Chill in the fridge for 15–30 minutes for the best flavor, or use immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
If you don’t have anchovy paste, finely minced anchovy fillets work as a great substitute.
Adjust lemon juice to add more brightness if you prefer a tangier dressing.

Storage

Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before each use. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but chilling helps the flavors meld beautifully. Avoid freezing as the texture can separate upon thawing.

How to Serve

A clear glass jar is filled with a creamy, pale yellow dressing speckled lightly with green herbs and black pepper. A wooden spoon, held by a woman's hand, dips into the jar, lifting the thick, smooth dressing which drips slightly back into the jar. Behind the jar, fresh green leafy lettuce with a sprinkle of shredded white cheese and golden brown croutons are visible. The jar sits on a wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dressing without anchovies?

Yes, you can omit anchovy paste for a milder version, but it will lose some of the classic savory depth that anchovies provide. Adding a bit of soy sauce or capers can help mimic some umami.

How do I know when the dressing is the right consistency?

The dressing should be creamy and smooth but thick enough to coat salad leaves nicely. If it feels too thick, add water a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.