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Thousand Island Dressing Recipe
Some days whirl by with more speed than a toddler running late for bedtime. This DIY Thousand Island Dressing was my quick fix after a sandwich order got me craving that tangy, creamy sub dressing flavor at home. Courtney here — a food blogger who loves sharing simple, fresh recipes that bring a little homemade goodness to family meals. If you like the recipe, please share it!
This Thousand Island Dressing Recipe is homemade magic that’s perfect for slathering on everything from subs to salads. It’s got a touch of sweetness, a little tang, and a creamy base that feels indulgent without being complicated.
It’s an easy sub dressing recipe you’ll keep coming back to, and it even works great as a keto Thousand Island Dressing with a few smart tweaks.
What is Thousand Island Dressing Recipe?
Thousand Island Dressing is a creamy, tangy sauce that’s a classic for a reason. It’s often the secret behind the best submarine sandwiches and works beautifully as a seafood dressing recipe or a versatile dip. This Healthy Thousand Island Dressing combines simple ingredients to make a homemade version that’s fresher and more flavorful than store-bought. The blend typically includes mayo, ketchup, and a little pickle or relish, making it heavenly on burgers, wraps, or as a salad topper.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon finely minced onion
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon sugar (for a bit of sweetness)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Whisk or fork
- Airtight container for storage
How to Make Thousand Island Dressing Recipe
Step 1:
In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and ketchup until smooth.
Step 2:
Add the finely chopped sweet pickle relish and minced onion, stirring everything together.
Step 3:
Mix in white vinegar, lemon juice, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Step 4:
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 5:
If you like your dressing a bit sweeter, whisk in the optional sugar until dissolved.
Step 6:
Cover the bowl or transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors develop.
Step 7:
Give it a quick stir before serving.
Some Tips!
- Use real mayonnaise for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- For a keto Thousand Island Dressing, opt for sugar-free ketchup or swap it with tomato paste and a little sweetener.
- Adjust relish and onion amounts to your preference for chunkier or smoother dressing.
- Let it chill in the fridge to allow flavors to meld — it tastes even better the next day.
- This homemade dressing makes a great dip for fresh veggies and seafood, not just sandwiches.
How to Store Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dressing stays fresh for up to one week, but its flavor is often best within the first 3-4 days. Give it a quick stir before using again.
What to Eat With
This Thousand Island Dressing Recipe is a dream on submarine sandwiches, bringing that signature sub dressing recipe vibe home. It’s equally delicious drizzled over fresh greens or as a tangy dip alongside crispy carrot fries or chicken bites. Loved for its versatility, it also pairs wonderfully with seafood dishes like crab cakes — perfect for when you want a fresh seafood dressing recipe that’s easy to make at home.
FAQ
Can I make this Thousand Island Dressing recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
What makes this a healthy Thousand Island Dressing?
Using quality real mayo and fresh ingredients helps keep it more natural than many store-bought versions that have lots of additives.
Can I make a keto Thousand Island Dressing?
Yes! Use sugar-free ketchup or tomato paste with a keto-friendly sweetener, and it works perfectly.
How long does homemade Thousand Island Dressing last?
Stored properly in the fridge, it stays good about one week.
Can I make it spicy?
Sure! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give it a little kick.
Conclusion
Next time you want that classic sub dressing recipe without a trip to the deli, whip up this Thousand Island Dressing Recipe Homemade with simple ingredients. Courtney promises it’s an easy, healthy Thousand Island Dressing you and your family will reach for again and again — adding that perfect creamy, tangy touch to your meals.
Thousand Island Dressing Recipe
Course: SauceCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes30
minutes80
kcal40
minutesThis easy Thousand Island Dressing recipe is creamy, tangy, and perfect for subs, salads, or seafood. Make a healthy, homemade sub dressing at home in minutes.
Ingredients
½ cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons ketchup (or sugar-free for keto)
2 tablespoons finely chopped sweet pickle relish
1 tablespoon finely minced onion
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: ½ teaspoon sugar (for a bit of sweetness)
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and ketchup until smooth.
- Stir in sweet pickle relish and minced onion.
Mix in white vinegar, lemon juice, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. - Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Optional: whisk in sugar if you want a slightly sweeter dressing. - Cover or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
Stir briefly before serving.
Notes
- Use real mayonnaise for the creamiest texture.
For keto, use sugar-free ketchup or tomato paste with sweetener.
Adjust relish and onion amounts for chunkier or smoother dressing.
Flavor improves after chilling; best served after a few hours or the next day.
Also works as a dip for veggies, chicken bites, or seafood.



