This Ina Garten Caesar Dressing recipe is rich, creamy and full of bold flavor. It tastes fresh, bright and better than any store dressing. You can use it on salads, wraps or grilled chicken.
This dressing is simple to make at home with basic pantry items. In this guide, I will show you how to make Ina Garten Caesar Dressing and explain all the ingredients for Ina Garten Caesar Dressing in easy words.
My Experience With This Recipe
I love this Caesar dressing because it feels fancy but takes little effort. The first time I made it, the flavor was amazing. It tasted bright, smooth and perfectly balanced.
My family loved it on salad and even used it as a dip. I enjoy making this dressing fresh because homemade always tastes better. Every time I serve it, people ask for the recipe.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Ina Garten Caesar Dressing
- Servings: 6 servings
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Course: Dressing / Sauce
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 120 kcal per serving

Equipment List
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Garlic press
- Small jar or container
Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Caesar Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp anchovy paste (optional but recommended)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Add the Mayo
Add mayo to a clean bowl. This will form the creamy base of the dressing.
2. Add the Mustard
Add Dijon mustard to the mayo. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
3. Add Garlic
Add the minced garlic. Stir to spread the flavor through the mix.
4. Add Lemon Juice
Pour lemon juice into the bowl. Mix well to add brightness to the dressing.
5. Add Worcestershire
Add Worcestershire sauce for deep flavor. Stir until the sauce blends smoothly.
6. Add Parmesan
Add grated Parmesan cheese. Mix to make the dressing thick and rich.
7. Add Anchovy Paste
Add anchovy paste if using. It gives the classic Caesar taste.
8. Add Oil
Add olive oil and whisk until the dressing becomes creamy and silky.
9. Season the Dressing
Add salt and pepper. Adjust according to your taste preference.
10. Chill and Serve
Chill the dressing for 20 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully.
Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Caesar Dressing
- Use fresh garlic for stronger flavor.
- Chill the dressing before serving.
- Use good-quality Parmesan cheese.
- Add more lemon if you like bright flavor.
- Adjust anchovy paste based on taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not use bottled lemon juice.
- Do not skip chilling time.
- Do not use low-quality cheese.
- Do not add too much salt.
Serving Suggestions
This dressing tastes amazing on classic Caesar salad. Toss it with romaine lettuce, croutons and more Parmesan for a perfect bowl.
You can also use it as a dip for veggies or drizzle it on grilled chicken or shrimp. It also works well inside wraps and sandwiches for extra flavor.
Variations You Can Try
- Add extra garlic for stronger flavor.
- Add Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Add more lemon for a tangy taste.
- Add herbs like parsley for freshness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store in a sealed jar.
- Keep in the fridge for 5 days.
- Stir before each use.
- Do not freeze the dressing.
- Add a splash of lemon if flavor fades.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Fat | 11g |
| Carbs | 2g |
| Protein | 3g |
Health Benefits
This dressing contains olive oil, which supports heart health. Parmesan cheese adds calcium for strong bones. Garlic may boost immunity and improve digestion.
Because this dressing has rich ingredients, it is best enjoyed in small amounts. It turns simple salads into nourishing, flavorful meals.

Ina Garten Caesar Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp anchovy paste optional but recommended
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Add the Mayo
- Add mayo to a clean bowl. This will form the creamy base of the dressing.
Add the Mustard
- Add Dijon mustard to the mayo. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Add Garlic
- Add the minced garlic. Stir to spread the flavor through the mix.
Add Lemon Juice
- Pour lemon juice into the bowl. Mix well to add brightness to the dressing.
Add Worcestershire
- Add Worcestershire sauce for deep flavor. Stir until the sauce blends smoothly.
Add Parmesan
- Add grated Parmesan cheese. Mix to make the dressing thick and rich.
Add Anchovy Paste
- Add anchovy paste if using. It gives the classic Caesar taste.
Add Oil
- Add olive oil and whisk until the dressing becomes creamy and silky.
Season the Dressing
- Add salt and pepper. Adjust according to your taste preference.
Chill and Serve
- Chill the dressing for 20 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for stronger flavor.
- Chill the dressing before serving.
- Use good-quality Parmesan cheese.
- Add more lemon if you like bright flavor.
- Adjust anchovy paste based on taste.
FAQs about Ina Garten Caesar Dressing Recipe
1. Can I make this dressing without anchovy paste?
Yes, you can make it without anchovy paste. However, anchovies give classic Caesar flavor. Without them, the taste becomes lighter but still delicious.
2. Can I use fresh Parmesan instead of pre-grated?
Fresh Parmesan is always better. It melts into the dressing smoothly and gives a richer, deeper flavor that improves the whole recipe.
3. How do I fix a thick Caesar dressing?
If the dressing becomes too thick, add a small amount of water or lemon juice. Mix slowly until you reach the perfect creamy texture.
4. Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes, this dressing can be made two days early. Keep it in the fridge in a sealed jar. The flavor becomes stronger as it chills.
Final Thoughts
This Ina Garten Caesar Dressing recipe is simple, creamy and full of flavor. It turns any salad into a tasty dish and works with many meals. With easy steps and simple ingredients, you can make it at home in minutes.
Try it once, and you will never want store-bought dressing again. Enjoy your fresh and delicious Caesar dressing!

Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!

















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