Name: Thousand Island Dressing
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish; 1 tablespoon white vinegar; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Thousand Island Dressing is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet condiment that adds a bold pop of flavor to just about anything. Whether you drizzle it over a crisp wedge salad, use it as a burger spread, or dip your fries in it, this iconic dressing never disappoints. It’s a nostalgic classic that brings diner-style charm straight to your kitchen.

Made with a handful of pantry staples, this homemade version is worlds better than the store-bought bottle. The combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, and spices creates a luscious sauce with layers of flavor. It’s rich, smooth, and surprisingly versatile—perfect for sandwiches, seafood, and even veggie trays.

Why You’ll Love This Thousand Island Dressing

This dressing hits all the right notes—creamy, tangy, and just the right touch of sweetness. It’s quick to make (literally 5 minutes), uses ingredients you probably already have on hand, and stays fresh in the fridge for over a week.

Homemade Thousand Island has a fresher, brighter flavor than anything from a bottle. You control the sweetness, tang, and texture to your preference. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and customizable for different dietary needs.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start mixing up this creamy delight, gather these essential tools:

Mixing Bowl: Needed for combining all the ingredients evenly. A medium-sized bowl works best.
Whisk or Spoon: Helps emulsify the dressing into a smooth consistency. A whisk is ideal for that creamy finish.
Measuring Spoons and Cups: Precision is key for balancing flavors, especially with condiments.
Storage Jar or Airtight Container: Keeps your dressing fresh in the refrigerator and makes it easy to shake before serving.

Having these tools ready ensures a smooth prep process and helps you achieve that signature thick, dippable consistency that Thousand Island is known for.

Ingredients for the Thousand Island Dressing

Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the dressing, giving it richness and body.
Ketchup: Adds sweetness and a touch of tang that balances the mayo perfectly.
Sweet Pickle Relish: The key to that classic Thousand Island texture and sweet crunch.
White Vinegar: Brings a touch of sharp acidity to brighten the flavor.
Sugar: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and rounds out the tang.
Onion Powder: Adds depth and a savory note without overpowering.
Paprika: For a subtle smoky flavor and the signature peachy color.
Salt and Pepper: To season everything just right.

How To Make the Thousand Island Dressing

Step 1: Combine the Base

In a mixing bowl, add mayonnaise and ketchup. Stir together until fully blended and smooth.

Step 2: Add Flavor Boosters

Mix in the sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, sugar, onion powder, and paprika. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Season to Taste

Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Give the dressing a taste and adjust any seasonings to suit your preference.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Transfer the dressing into a jar or airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving and Storing Your Homemade Dressing

Serve this Thousand Island Dressing as a dip for fries, spread it on burgers or sandwiches, or drizzle it over a chopped salad for extra punch. It’s also fantastic with Reuben sandwiches or as a seafood sauce.

Store the dressing in a sealed container in the fridge. It keeps fresh for up to 7–10 days. Be sure to give it a good stir before each use as some separation may occur.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does homemade Thousand Island Dressing last?

It will stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 10 days.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Just use vegan mayonnaise and ensure the ketchup is plant-based.

Is Thousand Island Dressing gluten-free?

Yes—this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just check your labels to be sure.

Can I use dill pickle relish instead of sweet?

You can, but it will result in a more tangy, less sweet dressing. Still delicious, just different!

What can I substitute for ketchup?

Try tomato paste mixed with a touch of vinegar and sugar if you’re out of ketchup.

Can I freeze this dressing?

Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy base may separate and change texture once thawed.

Want More Dressing & Dip Ideas?

If you love this Thousand Island Dressing, you’ll enjoy these other flavor-packed recipes too:

Louisiana Remoulade Sauce for a zesty Cajun kick.
Rotel Chicken Salad Dip that’s perfect for game day.
Spicy Ranch Taco Dip for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Green Olive and Feta Cheese Dip if you’re craving a Mediterranean twist.
Cheesy Rotel Ranch Queso to spice up your snack game.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dressing board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go classic or add your own twist? I love hearing how others bring this recipe to life—questions are welcome too!

Thousand Island Dressing

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Author: Kate Walton
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: About 1 1/4 cups

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Description

This homemade Thousand Island Dressing recipe is a creamy, tangy, and sweet condiment perfect for salads, burgers, or dips. Made with mayo, ketchup, and sweet relish, it’s an easy and flavorful sauce you’ll want to make again and again. Gluten-free and customizable.