Whether you’re looking to recreate a classic Waldorf salad or add a gourmet touch to your meals, this Waldorf-Astoria Thousand Island Dressing Recipe is a must-try. Its creamy texture, sweet tang, and versatility make it a pantry favorite that’s perfect for every occasion.

If you’ve ever wondered what makes classic Waldorf-Astoria salads so unforgettable, the answer is often in the dressing. This Waldorf-Astoria Thousand Island Dressing recipe is creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet—a perfect balance that elevates any salad.
Whether you’re recreating a luxurious Waldorf salad at home or just want a versatile dressing to use on greens, sandwiches, or even as a dip, this recipe is your go-to.

What is Waldorf-Astoria Thousand Island Dressing?
Thousand Island dressing is a creamy, slightly tangy condiment made with mayonnaise, ketchup, vinegar, and seasonings.
The Waldorf-Astoria version takes it up a notch with a delicate sweetness and rich texture, making it a signature component of their famous salads. Its versatility also means you can use it on sandwiches, wraps, or even as a dip for fresh vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe!
- Creamy and flavorful – perfectly balances tangy, sweet, and savory notes.
- Versatile – works on salads, sandwiches, wraps, and as a dip.
- Easy to make at home – takes just a few minutes with ingredients you likely already have.
- Customizable – you can tweak sweetness, tang, and texture to your preference.
Waldorf-Astoria Thousand Island Dressing Ingredients

- Mayonnaise – Provides the creamy base for the dressing.
- Ketchup – Adds subtle sweetness and a hint of tang.
- Sweet pickle relish – Gives a crunchy texture and sweet flavor.
- Lemon juice or vinegar – Balances the richness with acidity.
- Paprika, salt, and pepper – For classic seasoning.
- Optional: hard-boiled egg or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
How to Make Waldorf-Astoria Thousand Island Dressing
Step One: In a medium bowl, mix mayonnaise and ketchup until smooth. Stir in sweet pickle relish, lemon juice, and seasonings. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Fold in finely chopped hard-boiled egg or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a richer flavor.
Step Two: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve over salads, sandwiches, or as a dip.

Tips for the Perfect Thousand Island Dressing
- Use high-quality mayonnaise for the creamiest texture.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less relish according to your taste.
- Make ahead! This dressing keeps in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Waldorf Salad – Toss with crisp apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts for the iconic salad.
- Sandwich Spread – Perfect for turkey, chicken, or veggie sandwiches.
- Dip – Use with fresh veggies or crispy fries.
- Wraps and Burgers – Adds a creamy, tangy boost to wraps and burgers alike.

Waldorf-Astoria Thousand Island Dressing Recipe Faqs
What ingredients are in Waldorf-Astoria Thousand Island Dressing? The classic version typically includes mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, lemon juice or vinegar, and seasonings like paprika, salt, and pepper. Some variations add finely chopped hard-boiled egg or a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
How do I make it at home? Simply combine mayonnaise and ketchup, then stir in sweet pickle relish, lemon juice, and seasonings. Optional ingredients like chopped egg or Worcestershire sauce can be added for extra depth. Chill before serving to let the flavors meld.
How long does it last in the fridge? When stored in an airtight container, this dressing can last up to one week in the refrigerator. Always check for freshness before use.
Can I make it healthier? Yes! You can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy version without compromising flavor.
What dishes can I use it on? Waldorf-Astoria Thousand Island Dressing is perfect on Waldorf salads, sandwiches, wraps, burgers, and as a dip for fresh vegetables or fries.
Can I adjust the sweetness or tanginess? Absolutely. Add more sweet pickle relish for sweetness or a splash of lemon juice or vinegar for extra tang to suit your taste.

More Copycat Waldorf-Astoria Recipes
Waldorf-Astoria Eggs Benedict Recipe
Waldorf-Astoria Red Velvet Cake
Waldorf-Astoria Spicy Asian Chicken Salad
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Waldorf-Astoria Thousand Island Dressing Recipe
Description
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons Ketchup
- 3 tablespoons Sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice, or vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt, adjust to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon Black pepper, adjust to taste
Optional: 1 finely chopped hard-boiled egg or 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix 3/4 cup Mayonnaise and 3 tablespoons Ketchup until smooth.
- Stir in s3 tablespoons Sweet pickle relish, 1 tablespoon Lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon Paprika. Adjust 1/4 teaspoon Salt and 1/8 teaspoon Black pepper to taste.
- Fold in finely chopped hard-boiled egg or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a richer flavor.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve over salads, sandwiches, or as a dip.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
Nutrition
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