Homemade Caesar Dressing Recipe: Classic, Creamy, and Easy

Unlock the savory umami of anchovies and Parmesan in a silky, preservative-free blend.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 17, 2025

Unlock the savory umami of anchovies and Parmesan in a silky, preservative-free blend.

Caesar dressing is a staple of classic American dining—creamy, tangy, and bursting with umami flavor. Store-bought versions pale in comparison to the real deal, and once you try making this dressing at home, you’ll understand why. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a blender, you can create a Caesar dressing that’s restaurant-quality—right in your own kitchen.

Why Make Caesar Dressing at Home?

Pre-made dressings are convenient, but nothing compares to the flavor of a homemade Caesar dressing. It’s fresher, brighter, and completely customizable. Plus, you avoid preservatives and stabilizers commonly found in bottled versions. With only a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch that will impress your family and guests alike.

Essential Ingredients

Authentic Caesar dressing requires a balance of umami, acidity, salt, and creaminess. Here’s a detailed look at each key ingredient:

Dijon Mustard: Adds tang and helps emulsify the dressing, ensuring a smooth, stable texture.
Vinegar: Balsamic or red wine vinegar provides a subtle sweetness and sharpness.
Worcestershire Sauce: This imparts depth and savoriness, essential to the classic Caesar profile.
Anchovies: The secret ingredient! Anchovy fillets (not paste) give Caesar dressing its signature umami punch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is non-negotiable—it’s the backbone of the flavor.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens and balances the richness.
Egg Yolk (Optional): Adds creaminess and helps thicken the dressing. If using raw yolk, consume the dressing the same day for food safety.
Olive Oil: Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan lends a rich, nutty finish.
Salt & Pepper: Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper round out the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting. Measure them accurately for the best results.

2. Blend the Base

To a blender or food processor, add the Dijon mustard, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, and egg yolk (if using). Blend on low speed for several seconds to break everything down.

3. Emulsify with Olive Oil

With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil in a steady stream. This gradual addition helps emulsify the dressing, creating a thick, creamy texture. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well combined.

4. Add Parmesan, Salt, and Pepper

Add the grated Parmesan cheese, pepper, and salt. Blend until everything is thoroughly incorporated and the dressing is smooth and creamy.

5. Taste and Adjust

Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. You can also add a splash of water to thin the dressing if needed.

6. Store Properly

Transfer the dressing to an airtight container. If you used raw egg yolk, use the dressing the same day for food safety. Otherwise, refrigerate it for up to three days.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

This Caesar dressing recipe is flexible—feel free to tailor it to your taste and dietary needs.

Vegetarian Version: Omit the anchovies and Worcestershire sauce (or use a vegetarian Worcestershire) for a fish-free dressing.
Creamier Texture: Add a little mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
Low-Fat Option: Use half olive oil and half water, or a mix of olive oil and yogurt.
Additional Flavors: Experiment with a dash of hot sauce, a little honey, or even capers for a different twist.

Ingredients Table

Serving Size	Quantity	Ingredient
2 Tbsp	Dijon	Mustard
1 Tbsp	Balsamic or red wine	Vinegar
1 tsp	Worcestershire	Sauce
4 fillets	Anchovy	Fillets
2 cloves	Garlic	(peeled)
½ lemon	Lemon	Juice (1–2 Tbsp)
1	Egg yolk	(optional, pasteurized)
½ cup	Olive	Oil
¼ cup	Parmesan	Cheese (freshly grated)
½ tsp	Black	Pepper
¼ tsp	Kosher	Salt

Storing Caesar Dressing: Tips & Tricks

Fresh Caesar dressing is best served immediately, but it can be stored for up to three days in the refrigerator. Always use an airtight container to keep out air and odors. If the dressing thickens when chilled, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and give it a good stir before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Caesar dressing is famously paired with crisp romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, and shaved Parmesan for a classic salad. But don’t stop there—use it as a dip for vegetables, a spread for sandwiches, or a sauce for grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables. You can even drizzle it over a baked potato or use it to amp up a simple green salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping Anchovies: Anchovies are the heart of Caesar dressing; don’t omit them unless you must for dietary reasons.
Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes far superior.
Adding Oil Too Quickly: Drizzle the oil slowly for a creamy, emulsified texture.
Over-Salting: Anchovies and Parmesan both add salt, so taste and adjust carefully.
Using Bottled Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is brighter and more flavorful.

Health Considerations

Classic Caesar dressing is a rich, indulgent sauce. If you’re watching your calories or sodium intake, consider moderating the portion size or adjusting the ingredients. Using less oil, omitting the egg yolk, or reducing the cheese can lighten the dressing without sacrificing too much flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Caesar dressing without anchovies?

A: Yes, you can omit anchovies for a vegetarian version, but the dressing will lack its classic umami depth. Miso or capers can add some of that savory flavor.

Q: How long does homemade Caesar dressing last?

A: If you use a raw egg yolk, consume it the same day. Otherwise, it keeps in the fridge for up to three days.

Q: Can I make Caesar dressing without a blender?

A: Yes! Mince the garlic and anchovies finely and whisk everything together vigorously.

Q: What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

A: Soy sauce or tamari can provide a similar savory note, though the flavor profile will change.

Q: Why is my Caesar dressing too thin?

A: You may have added the oil too quickly. Try blending again with more oil or a little mayonnaise to thicken.

Expert Tips for Perfect Caesar Dressing

Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh garlic, anchovies, and Parmesan make all the difference.
Blend in Stages: Pulse the base ingredients first, then slowly add oil for a stable emulsion.
Taste As You Go: Adjust seasonings, acidity, and salt to balance the flavors to your liking.
Customize Croutons: Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, then bake until golden for the best croutons.
Make It a Meal: Add grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp to your Caesar salad for a complete, satisfying dish.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the art of homemade Caesar dressing means never settling for the bottled stuff again. This recipe is simple, flexible, and delivers the creamy, tangy, umami-packed flavor that makes Caesar salads iconic. Whether you’re serving it as a classic salad, a dip, or a sauce, this dressing will elevate your meals and impress your guests. Plus, you’ll have bragging rights for making it from scratch!

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

Read full bio of medha deb