Creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor, this homemade Thousand Island dressing is better than store-bought! Made with simple ingredients like mayo, ketchup, relish, and a hint of spice, it’s the perfect topping for burgers, salads, sandwiches, and more. Ready in just minutes, this classic sauce will take your meals to the next level!
Yields: About 1 ½ cups
Prep time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat or low-fat, your preference)
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish (or finely chopped dill pickle relish with a pinch of sugar)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, adjust to taste depending on the sweetness of your relish)
- ⅛ teaspoon paprika
- Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional additions: A dash of hot sauce, a pinch of garlic powder, or a finely chopped hard-boiled egg.
Equipment:
- Medium bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife (if needed for chopping relish)
Instructions with Step-by-Step Pictures:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients.
Make sure you have all the ingredients measured and ready to go.
Step 2: Combine Mayonnaise and Ketchup.
In a medium bowl, add the mayonnaise and ketchup. Whisk or stir until they are well combined and the mixture is a light pink color.
Step 3: Add Sweet Pickle Relish.
Add the sweet pickle relish to the bowl. If your relish pieces are very large, you might want to chop them slightly for a smoother dressing.
Step 4: Add Finely Chopped Onion.
Add the finely chopped yellow onion to the mixture. The onion adds a subtle sharpness and flavor.
Step 5: Add Fresh Parsley.
Stir in the finely chopped fresh parsley. This adds a touch of freshness and color to the dressing.
Step 6: Add Vinegar, Sugar, and Paprika.
Pour in the white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar), add the sugar (if using), and sprinkle in the paprika.
Step 7: Season with Salt and Pepper.
Season the dressing with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
Step 8: Mix Everything.
Whisk or stir all the ingredients together until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more sugar if it’s too tangy, or a touch more vinegar if it’s too sweet.
Step 9: Chill (Recommended).
For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the Thousand Island dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. However, it can be used immediately if needed.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your homemade Thousand Island dressing on your favorite salads, as a topping for burgers or Reuben sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables, shrimp cocktail, or fries.
Storage:
Store leftover Thousand Island dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Thousand Island dressing!
