So, you’re craving that zesty, tangy, oh-so-addictive Texas Roadhouse Italian dressing, but you’re not about to wrestle a longhorn to get it, right? I feel you. This homemade version is your ticket to restaurant-quality flavor without leaving your kitchen—or spending your entire paycheck. Let’s whip up a dressing so good, it’ll make your salads sing and your taste buds do a little two-step!
Why This Recipe is Awesome
This Texas Roadhouse Italian dressing recipe is like finding a $20 bill in your old jeans—pure joy. It’s quick, uses pantry staples, and nails that perfect balance of tangy, herby, and slightly sweet. Plus, it’s idiot-proof—even I didn’t screw it up, and my cooking skills are questionable at best. Whether you’re tossing it with greens or sneaking it onto a sandwich, this dressing is your new BFF.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this liquid gold. No fancy-schmancy stuff required, just good ol’ basics:
- 1/2 cup olive oil: The good stuff, not that questionable bottle hiding in the back of your pantry.
- 1/4 cup white vinegar: For that sharp, tangy kick.
- 2 tablespoons water: Keeps things from getting too intense.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Fresh is best, but the bottled stuff works in a pinch.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Just a smidge to balance the tartness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Trust me, it’s the secret weapon.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: For that classic Italian vibe.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Don’t skip this; it’s not just for show.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a little green flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Or to taste, you flavor rebel.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly cracked if you’re feeling extra.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional, for those who like a tiny zing.
Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to channel your inner chef? Follow these steps, and you’ll have dressing so good, you’ll want to drink it (don’t, though—let’s not get weird).
- Grab a bowl or jar: A medium-sized bowl works, or use a mason jar if you wanna shake it like a Polaroid picture.
- Combine the liquids: Pour in the olive oil, white vinegar, water, and lemon juice. Give it a quick whisk or shake to blend.
- Add the sweet stuff: Toss in the sugar and stir until it dissolves. No one likes gritty dressing.
- Spice it up: Add garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling spicy). Whisk or shake until everything’s happily mingled.
- Taste and tweak: Dip a spoon in (or a carrot stick, no judgment). Adjust salt or sugar if it’s not vibing with your taste buds.
- Chill out: Pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors get cozy. Give it a quick shake before serving.
- Store it right: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Pro tip: Shake well before each use to avoid separation anxiety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Messing this up is harder than forgetting your Netflix password, but here are some rookie moves to dodge:
- Using old herbs: That oregano from 2012? Toss it. Fresh spices make or break this dressing.
- Skipping the chill time: Patience is a virtue, people. Letting it sit in the fridge is non-negotiable for max flavor.
- Overdoing the vinegar: Too much tang can make your dressing taste like a science experiment gone wrong.
- Not shaking before serving: Separated dressing is sad dressing. Give it a good mix every time.
Alternatives & Substitutions
Life happens, and sometimes you’re missing an ingredient. No stress—here’s how to keep the party going:
- Olive oil swap: Avocado oil or grapeseed oil can step in, but olive oil’s the classic for a reason.
- Vinegar options: Apple cider vinegar works for a slightly sweeter twist, or try red wine vinegar for extra depth.
- No lemon juice?: A splash of lime juice or even a tiny bit of orange juice can pinch-hit.
- Herb hacks: Fresh herbs are awesome (use 1 tablespoon fresh for every 1 teaspoon dried), but don’t sweat it if you’re stuck with dried.
- Sugar alternatives: Honey or agave can sub in, but go easy—they’re sweeter than sugar. IMO, stick with sugar for that true Texas Roadhouse vibe.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use a blender to mix this?
Totally! A blender or food processor makes it silky smooth in seconds. Just don’t overblend and turn it into a science project.
How long does this dressing last?
In the fridge, it’s good for about a week in an airtight container. But let’s be real—it’ll probably disappear faster than your weekend plans.
Can I make it less tangy?
Yup, cut back on the vinegar by a tablespoon and add a pinch more sugar. Taste as you go to avoid a sugar bomb.
Is this dressing good for anything besides salad?
Oh, heck yeah! Drizzle it on grilled veggies, use it as a marinade for chicken, or slather it on a sub sandwich. Get creative!
Can I double the recipe?
Go for it! Just keep the ratios the same, and you’ll have enough to share—or not. No one’s judging if you hoard it.
What if I don’t have all the spices?
You can skip one or two herbs, but don’t ditch the oregano or basil—they’re the heart of the Italian flavor. Improvise with what you’ve got!
Is this exactly like Texas Roadhouse’s dressing?
It’s darn close. Their recipe’s a guarded secret, but this version’s so good, you’ll be too busy eating to care about the difference.
Final Thoughts
There you go, friend—you’ve just unlocked the secret to a killer Texas Roadhouse Italian dressing that’ll make your salads, sandwiches, and maybe even your life a little better. It’s easy, it’s delicious, and it’s proof that you don’t need a chef’s hat to whip up something awesome. Now go impress someone (or just yourself) with your new culinary skills. You’ve earned it! Got leftovers? Drizzle it on everything and thank me later.
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- Sweet Grits Recipe
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- Sourdough Discard Bread Recipe
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Texas Roadhouse Italian Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl or mason jar, combine olive oil, white vinegar, water, and lemon juice.
- Add sugar and stir or shake until dissolved.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk or shake well.
- Taste and adjust salt or sugar as needed.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Shake well before serving. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Notes
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor; old herbs make a sad dressing.
- Chill time is key—don’t skip it, or the flavors won’t reach their full potential.
- Try it as a marinade for chicken or a drizzle over roasted veggies for extra yum.
- Shake before each use to avoid separation.