Thousand Island Dressing

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Creamy, tangy, and full of bold flavor, Thousand Island Dressing is a timeless classic that instantly elevates salads, sandwiches, and burgers. With its balanced blend of mayo, ketchup, pickles, and a hint of sweetness, this homemade version brings freshness and a punch of personality to every dish it touches.

Whether you’re drizzling it over crisp greens or slathering it on a Reuben sandwich, this dressing is more than just a condiment—it’s the heart of so many comforting meals. With just a few pantry staples and 5 minutes of your time, you’ll whip up a batch that’s far more flavorful than store-bought.

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Why You’ll Love This Thousand Island Dressing

This recipe is incredibly simple yet yields rich, restaurant-quality flavor. It’s naturally gluten-free, adaptable for vegan diets, and keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to a week. You control the sweetness, spice, and chunkiness, customizing it to your tastes without preservatives.

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What Ingredients Make Thousand Island Dressing So Special?

Unlike other dressings, Thousand Island combines creamy, sweet, tangy, and savory all in one. The base of mayo and ketchup gives it a pink-orange hue, while ingredients like sweet pickle relish, vinegar, and finely diced onion add complexity and crunch. Some versions include hard-boiled eggs or chili sauce, but this one sticks to a balanced, versatile core.

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Ingredients for the Thousand Island Dressing

Each ingredient here plays a key role in building the flavor profile we know and love in Thousand Island dressing.

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise – The creamy base that gives the dressing its rich texture.
• 2 tablespoons ketchup – Adds sweetness, color, and tomato depth.
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish – Delivers tangy crunch and a signature sweet note.
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar – Brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Adds savory depth without the texture of raw onion.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – For a subtle kick and aromatic finish.
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika – Gives a hint of smokiness that enhances the richness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for balancing all the flavors.

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How To Make the Thousand Island Dressing

Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base

In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise and 2 tablespoons ketchup. Stir until smooth and fully blended.

Step 2: Add the Sweet and Tangy Elements

Add 1 tablespoon of sweet pickle relish and 1 teaspoon white vinegar to the bowl. Mix well to distribute the texture evenly.

Step 3: Season It Up

Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika. Stir thoroughly to combine.

Step 4: Final Taste and Adjust

Add salt and pepper to taste, then give it a final stir. Adjust vinegar or ketchup if needed for more tang or sweetness.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.

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How to Store and Serve Homemade Thousand Island Dressing

This recipe makes about 3/4 cup, which yields enough for 4 to 6 servings. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Always stir before using, as ingredients may settle over time.

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What to Serve With Thousand Island Dressing?

Fresh Garden Salad

Classic and crisp—this dressing is the perfect companion to leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.

Reuben Sandwich

Use it in place of Russian dressing for an unforgettable twist on this deli favorite.

Burger Sauce

Spread it on buns for a creamy, tangy burger boost.

Grilled Chicken Wrap

A flavorful alternative to ranch or Caesar in wraps.

Veggie Dip

Serve as a dipping sauce for carrot sticks, celery, or bell peppers.

Roasted Potatoes

A fun swap for ketchup or aioli.

Shrimp Cocktail

Try it instead of cocktail sauce for a creamy seafood pairing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Thousand Island Dressing vegan?

Absolutely. Use vegan mayo and ensure your ketchup and relish are vegan-friendly for a fully plant-based version.

2. Is this dressing spicy?

Not typically, but you can add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce if you want to turn up the heat.

3. Can I substitute fresh onion for onion powder?

Yes, finely minced onion can be used for a chunkier texture and stronger onion flavor—about 1 teaspoon.

4. How long does homemade Thousand Island last?

When stored properly in the fridge, it lasts about 5 to 7 days. Always check for freshness before using.

5. Can I freeze it?

Not recommended. The mayonnaise base doesn’t freeze well and can separate upon thawing.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a twist of heat or keep it classic?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other sauce smarter.

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Conclusion

Thousand Island Dressing is one of those recipes that proves simplicity can still lead to flavor-packed results. Homemade means no preservatives, full control of taste, and unbeatable freshness. Whip it up for your next salad, sandwich, or burger night—and don’t forget to explore more of our dressings and dips like Rainbow Smoothie Bowls, Snack Prep Veggie Sticks with Easy Pesto Hummus, and Fried Vegetable Egg Rolls.

For more easy and flavorful recipes, check out Meals We Share on Pinterest.

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