Alton Brown Blue Cheese Dressing Recipe

Alton Brown’s blue cheese dressing is a flavor-packed addition that will make your salads irresistible.

With its creamy texture and bold taste, this dressing pairs perfectly with crisp iceberg lettuce or drizzled over grilled steak.

Don’t skimp on the quality of your blue cheese—select a robust Gorgonzola or Roquefort for the best results.

How to Make Alton Brown Blue Cheese Dressing

Ingredients

• 4 oz Gorgonzola cheese
• 1/3 cup Sour cream
• 1/3 cup Buttermilk
• 1/3 cup Mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp White wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by placing the Gorgonzola cheese in a small mixing bowl.

Mash it with a fork until it has a slightly chunky consistency.

Add the sour cream to the bowl and mix it in thoroughly.

Next, pour in the buttermilk and mayonnaise, stirring until the mixture is well combined.

Add the white wine vinegar and Worcestershire sauce to the bowl.

Mix well to ensure the ingredients are fully integrated.

Finish by adding the black pepper and giving the dressing one last stir.

Your dressing is now ready to use!

You can serve it immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use good quality Gorgonzola cheese for the best flavor.

If you prefer a smoother dressing, you can blend the mixture in a food processor instead of mashing by hand.

Chilling the dressing for an hour before serving enhances the flavors.

For an extra tangy twist, try adding a teaspoon of lemon juice.

If you find the dressing too thick, add a little more buttermilk until you reach your desired consistency.

Remember, the dressing thickens slightly as it chills.

What to Serve with Alton Brown Blue Cheese Dressing

Wedge Salad

A classic option is a wedge salad.

Crisp iceberg lettuce pairs beautifully with Alton Brown’s tangy blue cheese dressing.

Add some cherry tomatoes and crumbled bacon for extra flavor.

Buffalo Wings

Buffalo wings make a delicious companion.

The spicy heat of the wings contrasts nicely with the cool, creamy dressing.

You can even use the dressing as a dip for the wings.

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are a fantastic choice.

Try zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus.

The smoky char from grilling enhances the creamy blue cheese flavor.

Steamed Artichokes

Steamed artichokes might be a surprising idea.

Dip the tender leaves in the blue cheese dressing for a delightful combination.

It’s a fun way to enjoy a unique vegetable.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are an unexpected delight.

Their natural sweetness pairs well with the tangy dressing.

You’ll love dipping these fries in Alton Brown’s creation.

Variations and Substitutions

Different Cheeses

You can swap Gorgonzola for Roquefort if you want a stronger flavor.

Point Reyes blue cheese is another option that offers a distinct taste.

Feel free to try different brands to find your favorite.

Altering the Cream Base

You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to cut down on calories.

Another great alternative for buttermilk is regular milk blended with some vinegar.

Experiment with light mayonnaise if you’re looking to make a lighter dressing.

Additional Ingredients

Consider adding a spoonful of honey for a touch of sweetness.

For an extra kick, a dash of hot sauce can spice things up nicely.

If you love herbs, fresh parsley or chives can add a fresh flavor dimension.

Vinegar Substitutions

Apple cider vinegar works just as well if you don’t have white wine vinegar.

A splash of lemon juice can also bring that tangy acidity.

Play around with different types of vinegar to get the perfect balance.

Thicker or Thinner Texture

For a thicker dressing, add more Gorgonzola or decrease the amount of buttermilk.

To thin it out, just add a bit more buttermilk or even some milk.

Adjust the consistency based on how you prefer to dress your salads.

How to Store Leftover Alton Brown Blue Cheese Dressing

Airtight Containers

Store your blue cheese dressing in an airtight container.

Mason jars work wonderfully for this.

Refrigeration

Keep it in the refrigerator.

It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Stir Before Use

Separation is normal.

Give it a good stir before each use.

Shaking also helps remix ingredients.

That’s it! Quick and easy steps to keep your delicious dressing fresh and ready!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Mixing Ingredients Properly

It’s crucial to thoroughly mix the Gorgonzola with the other ingredients.

Lumps of cheese can cause an uneven texture which affects the overall flavor of your dressing.

Make sure to use a fork to mash the cheese well before adding the other components.

Using Low-Quality Ingredients

Quality matters!

Opt for good-quality Gorgonzola and fresh buttermilk for the best results.

Using cheap or expired ingredients can ruin the dressing and leave you disappointed.

Storing Incorrectly

Your dressing needs to be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Without proper storage, the dressing can go bad quickly and develop an unpleasant taste.

Always check the expiration dates and give it a good stir before serving.