Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe

A few days ago, I picked up a bottle of Caesar salad dressing from the store and was taken aback by the high price. As a chef, I know that the ingredients are so simple to make this dish, but it’s so expensive. Then, I decided to recreate this dressing.

Then, I remembered the Cheesecake Factory’s Caesar salad dressing – it was my all-time favorite! After so many trials, I finally found the copycat version on TikTok. I was excited to try it in my own kitchen, and I was shocked when I got the same taste as the last time I had it at the Cheesecake Factory. It was an absolute delight!

So, let’s learn how you can also make this delicious Copycat Cheesecake Factory Caesar salad dressing Recipe at home!

How to Make Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing

Creating this homemade version Caesar salad dressing is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll find that making it at home not only saves you money but also gives you a fresher and more flavorful dressing. Let’s learn step-by-step:

Ingredients List

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or more, if needed)
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Pinch of salt
• ⅓ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon sweet paprika
• ¾-1 tsp grain mustard
• 2-3 tablespoon lemon juice
• 4-5 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon wine vinegar
• ½ teaspoon minced garlic

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups

Making Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe

Step 1 | Mix the Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, a pinch of salt, 1/3 tsp garlic powder, 3/4 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp sweet paprika, 3/4-1 tsp grain mustard, 2-3 tbsp. lemon juice, 4-5 tbsp. olive oil, 1 tsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp. wine vinegar, and 1/2 tsp minced garlic.

Step 2 | Whisk It Up

Using a whisk, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until you have a smooth and creamy dressing. This is where the magic happens – whisking ensures that all the flavors blend together beautifully.

Step 3 | Serve

Your homemade salad dressing is now ready to use! 

Tips for Making the Best Caesar Salad Dressing

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and minced garlic make a significant difference in flavor.
• Adjust to taste: Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste. If you like it tangier, add more lemon juice or vinegar. For a sweeter touch, increase the maple syrup.
• Whisk well: Ensuring that all ingredients are thoroughly mixed will give you the best texture and flavor.
• Chill before serving: Let the dressing sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Quality olive oil: Using good-quality olive oil enhances the overall flavor of the dressing.

Recipe Variations

• Creamier version: Add a bit more mayonnaise for an extra creamy texture.
• Anchovy lovers: Incorporate a few mashed anchovies or a dash of anchovy paste for a traditional Caesar dressing flavor.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Herb twist: Mix in some fresh chopped herbs like parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.

How to Serve Caesar Dressing

This versatile dressing can be used in numerous ways:

1. Classic Caesar Salad: Toss with romaine lettuce, croutons, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

2. Dip: Serve as a dip with fresh vegetables or crispy chicken tenders.

3. Sandwich spread: Use it as a spread on sandwiches or wraps for added flavor.

4. Marinade: Marinate chicken or shrimp before grilling for a flavorful boost.

Storing Caesar Salad Dressing

To store your homemade Caesar salad dressing:

Refrigerate: Keep the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to a week.

Stir before using: Give the dressing a good stir or shake before using it, as some separation may occur.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do all Caesar salad dressings have anchovies?

No, not all Caesar salad dressings require anchovies. This recipe uses Worcestershire sauce and grain mustard to achieve the signature tangy flavor without the need for anchovies.

2. Do all Caesar salad dressings require raw eggs?

No, not all Caesar salad dressings require raw eggs. This recipe uses mayonnaise as the base, which provides the creamy texture without the need for raw eggs.

3. Can I make this dressing less creamy?

Yes, you can make this dressing less creamy by increasing the amount of lemon juice or using a lighter mayonnaise.

4. Can I blend the dressing instead of whisking it?

Absolutely! You can blend the Caesar dressing instead of whisking it. The end result will be just as delicious.

5. How can I make the dressing more tangy?

Increase the amount of lemon juice or vinegar for a tangier taste.

6. What can I do if my dressing is too thick?

Thin it out with a little water, olive oil, or lemon juice until you reach the desired consistency.

7. Can I use a different type of mustard?

Yes, you can use Dijon mustard or even whole-grain mustard in place of the grain mustard called for in the recipe.

8. Can I add anchovies to this dressing?

Absolutely! If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, you can stir in a teaspoon or two of finely chopped anchovies.

9. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of vinegar, such as red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar, to change up the flavor profile.

10. Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop and meld together, making it even more delicious.

Conclusion

Recreating the Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad Dressing at home is a delightful and cost-effective way to enjoy this beloved dressing. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make a dressing that rivals the restaurant version.

Give this recipe a try and elevate your salads to a new level of deliciousness. Enjoy your homemade Caesar dressing, and don’t forget to share your experience with us.