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Creamy, tangy, and ever-so-slightly sweet, Thousand Island Dressing is a timeless favorite that deserves a place in every fridge. Whether you’re slathering it over a juicy Reuben sandwich, tossing it into a crisp salad, or using it as a dip for fries and veggies, this dressing delivers bold flavor with a nostalgic twist.

Made with simple pantry staples, this homemade version outshines anything you’ll find in a bottle. It has just the right balance of richness and acidity, making it the ultimate multitasker in your kitchen. Once you try it, there’s no going back to store-bought.

Why You’ll Love This Thousand Island Dressing

This dressing isn’t just versatile, it’s ridiculously easy to make. You can whip it up in under 10 minutes and it keeps beautifully in the fridge. The combination of mayonnaise and ketchup is classic, but it’s the small additions like sweet relish, onion, and vinegar that give this its signature flavor. It tastes creamy, slightly tangy, with a hint of sweetness that balances everything out perfectly.

Use it to dress up burgers, serve it with crispy chicken tenders, or drizzle it on top of a Cobb salad. It’s also a crowd-pleasing dip for parties and BBQs.

What Makes a Thousand Island Dressing?

The beauty of Thousand Island lies in its layers of flavor. Most recipes feature a base of mayonnaise and ketchup, then build from there. Some versions include chopped hard-boiled eggs or hot sauce, but the classic recipe sticks to a sweet, tangy, and creamy profile.

If you like a little extra texture, a finely chopped pickle or bit of onion goes a long way. And don’t skip the vinegar or lemon juice—that hit of acid brightens everything up.

Ingredients for the Thousand Island Dressing

You probably have everything you need right in your kitchen already. With just a few fresh ingredients, you’ll make a dressing that beats the bottled stuff by miles.

Mayonnaise brings the creamy richness that defines this dressing. It’s the base that carries all the flavors.

Ketchup adds sweetness and a touch of acidity. It gives that nostalgic color and tang.

Sweet Pickle Relish is what makes Thousand Island truly unique. It gives texture and a sweet zing.

White Vinegar lifts the whole mixture, adding brightness and depth.

Yellow Onion minced finely, offers a sharp contrast that complements the creamy-sweet elements.

Salt enhances and ties all the flavors together without overpowering.

Optional: Hot Sauce or Paprika if you want a little extra kick or smokiness.

How To Make the Thousand Island Dressing

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and ketchup until fully blended. This forms your creamy foundation.

Step 2: Add Flavor Layers

Stir in the sweet pickle relish, vinegar, and finely minced onion. Mix well to ensure even distribution.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

Add a pinch of salt, then taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed, adding a dash of hot sauce or paprika if desired.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Let the dressing rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.

Serving and Storing This Dressing Delight

This recipe yields about 1 cup of dressing, which can generously serve 6 to 8 people depending on how it’s used. It’s perfect drizzled over salads, used as a burger spread, or served as a dip.

Store your Thousand Island Dressing in a mason jar or airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to a week. Just give it a stir before each use to refresh the texture.

What to Serve With Thousand Island Dressing?

Classic Reuben Sandwich

It’s practically made for it. Pair this dressing with pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and rye bread.

Crispy Chicken Tenders

Use it as a dipping sauce for breaded or grilled chicken tenders.

Loaded Burgers

Spread a generous dollop on your favorite burger instead of regular condiments.

Cobb Salad

Drizzle it over a classic Cobb with bacon, avocado, blue cheese, and hard-boiled eggs.

Sweet Potato Fries

Perfectly balances the sweet and savory in every bite.

Fish Tacos

Add a creamy contrast to spicy or grilled fish tacos.

Grilled Veggie Wraps

Amp up flavor with this dressing inside your favorite roasted veggie wrap.

Want More Sauce & Dip Ideas?

If this dressing has you excited to make more from scratch, check out these other crave-worthy recipes:

• Homemade Ketchup Recipe for a fresh, tangy alternative to store-bought.
• Creamy Garlic Orzo with Lemon Chicken Meatballs if you’re looking for comforting and creamy dinner options.
• Crispy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls to pair with your favorite dipping sauces.
• Loaded Tater Tots for a game-day snack that loves this dressing on the side.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta to explore more creamy meal pairings.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it whenever you need a tangy twist for your next dish.

Let me know how it turns out for you. Did you make it spicy or keep it classic? Did you find a new favorite way to use it?

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and daily meal inspiration on Mia Recipes on Pinterest.

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