Dinner

Easy Creamy Caesar Dressing Recipe

Byrami Hayes January 20, 2026January 20, 2026

Introduction

This easy creamy Caesar dressing is a perfect blend of tangy, savory, and rich flavors that bring any salad to life. Made with simple ingredients and ready in minutes, it’s a classic favorite for Caesar salads and beyond.

A close-up of a white bowl filled with a creamy salad layered with light green lettuce leaves, pale yellow bowtie pasta, and golden brown croutons scattered on top. Thin, uneven slices of light yellow cheese are spread across the salad, adding texture and color contrast. The salad looks lightly sprinkled with black pepper. In the background, there are small bowls with black pepper and salt on a white marbled surface, next to a white cloth with green stripes. The overall look is fresh, creamy, and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste (or more)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or more)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, olive oil, minced garlic, anchovy paste, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 2: Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors develop fully.
Step 4: Stir well before serving. The dressing makes about 1 1/2 cups and can be used immediately or stored.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt without compromising creaminess.
Add extra anchovy paste for a more authentic, savory depth.
If you prefer, finely chop fresh anchovies instead of anchovy paste for texture.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and avoid pre-shredded versions that may contain additives.

Storage

Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir well before each use. It’s best served chilled but can be left at room temperature for a short time during service.

How to Serve

A clear glass jar filled with creamy white sauce sprinkled with black pepper on top, with a silver spoon inside the jar. Surrounding the jar on a white marbled surface are a large green lettuce leaf, two lemon halves showing the bright yellow interior, a small white bowl with grated cheese, and two small wooden bowls, one with coarse white salt and the other with ground black pepper. The scene is arranged neatly with soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dressing without anchovy paste?

Yes, you can omit anchovy paste for a milder flavor, though it does contribute a characteristic umami taste. You can also substitute it with a small amount of soy sauce for a similar savory note.

How long should I let the dressing sit before using?

Allow at least one hour in the refrigerator after mixing to let the flavors meld together. This resting time enhances the taste, making the dressing richer and more balanced.