Traditional Caesar Dressing Recipe

This Traditional Caesar Dressing Recipe is rich, creamy, and packed with bold garlic, Parmesan, anchovies, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. It's the classic homemade dressing for Caesar salad, but also works as a dip, sandwich spread, or vegetable dressing.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 8

Course: sauce

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 175

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 anchovy fillets, finely minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

1 Medium mixing bowl
1 Whisk
1 Set measuring cups
1 Set measuring spoons
1 Garlic press or microplane
1 Citrus juice
1 Cheese Grater
1 Rubber spatula
1 Airtight glass jar or container

Method

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil.
Whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and black pepper.
If the dressing is too thick, whisk in the cold water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Transfer the dressing to an airtight container.
Refrigerate and let it rest for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.
Stir well before serving over Caesar salad, grilled chicken, wraps, or as a vegetable dip.

Notes

Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor and texture.
Resting the dressing enhances the garlic and anchovy flavors.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Do not freeze, as dairy-based dressings may separate after thawing.
For an authentic Caesar dressing, use anchovy fillets instead of anchovy paste whenever possible.