Homemade Caesar Dressing Recipe
Introduction
This homemade Caesar dressing is a creamy, tangy sauce perfect for elevating your salads with bold flavors. Made from simple ingredients you likely have on hand, it brings fresh garlic, lemon, and Parmesan together for a classic taste.

Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 garlic cloves (grated or pressed)
- 3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup extra light olive oil (not extra virgin)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, grated garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth.
- Step 2: While whisking vigorously, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Continue whisking once all the oil is added until the dressing is fully incorporated and creamy. Stir in the grated Parmesan and whisk again to combine.
- Step 3: Transfer the dressing to a mason jar or airtight container. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Tips & Variations
- Use extra light olive oil rather than extra virgin for a milder flavor and better emulsification.
- For a richer taste, add a dash of anchovy paste or finely chopped anchovies to the dressing.
- If you prefer a thinner dressing, whisk in a tablespoon or two of water or additional lemon juice.
Storage
Store the dressing in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using, give it a good stir or shake as the ingredients may separate. It’s best served chilled.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dressing vegan?
You can substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan version and omit the Parmesan or replace it with a plant-based alternative. Note that the flavor profile will be different.
Why use extra light olive oil instead of extra virgin?
Extra light olive oil has a more neutral taste and lighter texture, which helps the dressing emulsify smoothly without overpowering the other flavors.
Print
Homemade Caesar Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 1/2 cups 1x
Description
This homemade Caesar dressing is a creamy, flavorful blend perfect for elevating your Caesar salad or as a zesty dip. Made from simple ingredients including mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese, it delivers a rich and tangy taste with the ideal balance of seasoning and texture.
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, grated or pressed
- 3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup extra light olive oil (not extra virgin)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Combine base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, grated garlic cloves, 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until thoroughly blended.
- Incorporate the olive oil: While whisking vigorously, slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup of extra light olive oil. Continue whisking after all the oil is added to ensure the dressing emulsifies properly and achieves a creamy consistency.
- Add parmesan cheese: Stir in 1/2 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese and whisk to combine well. This adds the signature salty, nutty flavor characteristic of Caesar dressing.
- Chill before serving: Transfer the dressing to a mason jar or airtight container, seal tightly, and refrigerate until ready to use. The dressing keeps well and flavors meld better when rested for at least 30 minutes.
Notes
- Use extra light olive oil for a milder flavor and smoother texture; extra virgin olive oil can be too strong.
- Ensure garlic is finely grated or pressed to avoid large chunks in the dressing.
- Worcestershire sauce contributes an umami depth and can be found in most supermarkets.
- For a thicker consistency, adjust the amount of mayonnaise slightly.
- The dressing can be stored refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce/Dressing
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Caesar dressing, homemade salad dressing, creamy dressing, garlic dressing, parmesan dressing, easy Caesar salad sauce

