Homemade Russian Dressing
This classic Russian dressing recipe is a wonderfully spicy spread to slather on your favorite sandwiches (especially Reubens!) or drizzle on a salad. With less than 10 minutes to prep time, it’s easy to always have a batch on hand!
The Background
Russian dressing is creamy and smooth, slightly spiced, and full of flavor; a perfect accompaniment to any sandwich or salad.
Its history dates back to the early 1900s in the U.S.; the original version included caviar, which was a staple in Russian cuisine, hence the name “Russian” dressing.
Russian Dressing vs. Thousand Island vs. French Dressing
All three of these dressings are similar in that they share a number of ingredients, but have some distinct differences:
- Thousand Island dressing uses pickle relish and has a creamier, sweeter flavor.
- French dressing, while also reddish in color from ketchup and paprika, is more of a traditional vinaigrette with a base of oil and vinegar.
- Russian dressing is spicier and more piquant thanks to the addition of chili sauce, horseradish, and hot sauce.
Ingredients
The list of ingredients isn’t long, and each one gives this dressing a special pop of flavor!
- Mayonnaise – Use your favorite!
- Chili sauce – I buy the Heinz brand (it’s what my mom always used in these chipped ham BBQ sandwiches!).
- Shallot – Grated, so that it more easily blends into the dressing. You can substitute grated onion.
- Horseradish – I use the “prepared horseradish” for this dressing.
- Worcestershire sauce – Use your favorite brand.
- Hot sauce – I use Tabasco, but you can also use Frank’s Red Hot, Sriracha, or your favorite blend. If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can increase the amount to 1 teaspoon.
- Paprika – Reach for the “regular” or “sweet” paprika; do not use smoked paprika, as it will alter the flavor greatly.
How to Make It
It could not be simpler!
Just add all of the ingredients to a medium bowl and whisk until they are thoroughly combined.
You can use it immediately, but the dressing will taste even better if you let it sit for at least 1 hour before using.
How to Use It
Hands-down, my absolute favorite way to use Russian dressing is on a Reuben sandwich!
Slather it on rye bread, then pile it high with corned beef or pastrami, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut or coleslaw.
Here are more ideas for serving Russian dressing:
- As a salad dressing
- Spread on a burger
- Spread on any of your favorite deli sandwiches
- Add it to your quesadillas!
How to Store It
Kept in an airtight container, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing is not recommended.
More of My Favorite Dressings
- Mom’s Italian Dressing
- Homemade Buttermilk Ranch Dressing
- Classic Burger Sauce
- Creamy Coleslaw Dressing
If you make this recipe and love it, remember to stop back and give it a 5-star rating – it helps others find the recipe! ❤️️
Russian Dressing
Ingredients
- 1 cup (227 g) mayonnaise
- ½ cup (136 g) chili sauce
- 1 shallot, grated
- 1 tablespoon horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon (0.5 teaspoon) hot sauce
- ¼ teaspoon (0.25 teaspoon) sweet paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together all of the ingredients.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before using.
Notes
- Shallot: You can substitute 1 tablespoon of grated onion for the shallot.
- Hot Sauce: Use your favorite, i.e. Tabasco, Frank’s Red Hot, Sriracha, etc. For a spicier sauce, you can increase the hot sauce up to 1 teaspoon.
- Sandwiches: This is enough dressing to make about 8 Reuben sandwiches.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Freezing is not recommended.
Did you make this recipe?
Leave a review below, then snap a picture and tag @thebrowneyedbaker on Instagram so I can see it!
Photography by Lauren Grant
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Can I just say that I love how you always make sure there’s a Pin-able pic with a TITLE? It’s such a little thing but it makes it so much easier to see exactly what I’m looking for when I’m scrolling through my Pinterest board!
I’m so glad you find it useful!!
Oh yum. I am totally making this.
I hope you enjoy it!