Russian dressing recipe

A quick and creamy Russian dressing recipe made with mayo, ketchup, smoked paprika, and a kick of spice — perfect for Reubens, salads, or dipping fries.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 0

Total Time 10

Course Condiment, sauce

Cuisine American

Servings 16 Servings

Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise creamy base
¼ cup ketchup adds sweetness and color
1 tablespoon grated onion yes, really — it’s key for flavor!
1 tablespoon prepared horseradish for a little bite
1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds depth and warmth
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for umami richness
1 teaspoon hot sauce adjust to taste
1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar for tang
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional add-ins: chopped pickles or relish for texture or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.

Instructions

Prepare the base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and ketchup until smooth.
Add aromatics: Stir in the grated onion and horseradish. (Tip: use the fine side of a box grater for the onion.)
Season: Mix in Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, hot sauce, and lemon juice.
Adjust taste: Add salt and pepper, then taste-test — more hot sauce for heat, more ketchup for sweetness.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Notes

Grate the onion finely: It blends better and avoids unpleasant chunks.
Don’t skip chilling: The flavors need time to come together — 30 minutes makes a big difference.
Taste as you go: This isn’t a one-size-fits-all dressing. Adjust spice and tang to your preference.
Balance sweetness and heat: Too much ketchup can make it cloying, too much hot sauce can overpower.
Use fresh ingredients: Old mayo or bottled lemon juice won’t give the same brightness.

Keyword russian dressing recipe, russian dressing, dressing recipe, smoked paprika, thousand island dressing, salad dressings, hot sauce, worcestershire sauce