This Thousand Island Dressing is creamy, tangy, and just sweet enough, the kind of classic dressing that instantly makes a simple side salad feel complete. It comes together quickly with pantry staples and has that familiar balance of mayonnaise, ketchup, and sweet pickle relish that feels nostalgic but still fresh. Letting it chill for a bit gives the flavors time to settle, making it an easy make-ahead option that fits naturally into weeknight meals or casual entertaining.
How To Pair Thousand Island Dressing
Beyond salads, this dressing pairs well with burgers, wraps, and sandwiches, especially anything with beef or chicken. It also works as a dipping sauce for fries or onion rings, or spooned onto a chopped salad with tomatoes, cheese, and crispy croutons. Having a batch in the fridge gives you a versatile sauce that can do more than one job without extra prep.
Flavor Notes and Balance
The combination of mayonnaise and sour cream keeps the dressing rich but not overly heavy. Ketchup adds both sweetness and acidity, while white vinegar sharpens the overall flavor so it does not fall flat. Sweet pickle relish gives it that unmistakable Thousand Island identity, adding texture and little pops of sweetness throughout. Onion powder and garlic powder round things out without overpowering the dressing.
Tips and Easy Adjustments
If you like a slightly tangier dressing, add an extra splash of vinegar or reduce the sugar just a touch. For a smoother texture, you can finely chop the relish or give the finished dressing a quick stir with a mini whisk. Letting it chill for at least 30 minutes really matters here, the flavors settle and mellow, making it taste more balanced and cohesive.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Give it a quick stir before using, as it may thicken slightly as it chills. This is a great option to prep ahead for salads throughout the week or to have ready for quick lunches and casual dinners.
Thousand Island Dressing
Ingredients
- ½ cup (116 grams) mayonnaise
- ½ cup (115 grams) sour cream
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1½ tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, white vinegar, granulated sugar, and sweet pickle relish.
- Add onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
- Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Iamhomesteader.com’s Thousand Island Dressing inspired this recipe.
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