I like to try different sauces because they can completely change the flavor of a dish. A good sauce can make a simple meal taste amazing, whether it’s a creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce for pasta or a tangy Chimichurri Sauce for grilled meats.

I like experimenting with sauces because they add so much personality to food and are often quick and easy to make.

This list of 15 sauce recipes has something for every kind of meal. From classic options like Tartar Sauce and Cheese Sauce to bold flavors like Thai Peanut Sauce and Cajun Cream Sauce, you’ll find sauces to match any dish.

These recipes are versatile and packed with flavor, whether you need a dipping sauce, a marinade, or a topping to elevate your cooking.

So, if you’re looking for simple ways to make your meals more exciting, these sauce recipes are perfect. They’re easy to follow and use ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Try one today and see how a great sauce can transform your meal into something special!

Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a creamy, rich, and flavorful sauce perfect for pasta, wings, or dipping. It combines the bold taste of garlic with the savory goodness of Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make sauce is silky and versatile, elevating any dish it’s paired with. Make it for a quick dinner or as a party dip.

Time: 15 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Garlic: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly.
2. Make the Roux: Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Add Cream: Gradually pour the heavy cream while whisking to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Incorporate Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve over pasta, chicken, or vegetables.

Red Enchilada Sauce Recipe

Red Enchilada Sauce is a vibrant and tangy sauce made with chili powder, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. This homemade version is far better than store-bought and is perfect for making enchiladas, tacos, or casseroles. It’s rich, slightly spicy, and adds incredible depth to any dish.

Time: 25 mins | Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp chili powder
• 1½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt

Instructions

1. Make the Roux: Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and chili powder, whisking constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
2. Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Stir in the tomato sauce, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
3. Simmer: Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Serve: Use immediately for enchiladas or store in the fridge for up to a week.

Thai Peanut Sauce

Thai Peanut Sauce is a creamy and nutty sauce with a hint of sweetness and spice. Made with peanut butter, soy sauce, and coconut milk, this sauce is perfect for dipping, drizzling over noodles, or using it as a marinade. It’s easy to whip up and packed with bold flavors.

Time: 10 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• ½ cup peanut butter
• ¼ cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp sriracha (optional)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2-3 tbsp warm water

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and sriracha until smooth.
2. Adjust Consistency: Gradually add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
3. Taste and Adjust: Add more lime juice or soy sauce if needed for balance.
4. Serve: Use immediately or store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Cheese Sauce

Cheese Sauce is a creamy and velvety addition to many dishes, from mac and cheese to nachos or steamed vegetables. This homemade version is easy to make and uses simple ingredients like cheddar cheese and milk. It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for all ages.

Time: 15 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ tsp mustard powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste.
2. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to remove lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Melt Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and mustard powder. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.

Lemon Butter Sauce

Lemon Butter Sauce is a light and tangy sauce perfect for fish, chicken, or vegetables. With a buttery base and a bright citrus flavor, this sauce is elegant yet simple to prepare. It’s a great way to elevate a quick meal into something special.

Time: 10 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Melt Butter: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Cook Garlic: Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add Lemon Juice: Stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until combined.
4. Serve: Drizzle over fish, chicken, or vegetables immediately.

Bang Bang Sauce

Bang Bang Sauce is a creamy and slightly spicy dipping sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. This versatile sauce is perfect for fried shrimp, chicken, or even as a salad dressing. It’s quick to make and full of flavor.

Time: 5 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha
• 1 tsp honey (optional)

Instructions

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey until smooth.
2. Taste and Adjust: Add more sriracha for extra heat or honey for sweetness.
3. Serve: Use immediately or refrigerate for up to a week.

Garlic Sauce

Garlic Sauce is a creamy and bold sauce with a rich garlic flavor, perfect for drizzling over grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce. Made with simple ingredients, this versatile sauce is easy to prepare and adds a burst of flavor to any dish. It’s a must-have for garlic lovers.

Time: 10 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Garlic: Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and sautéed garlic. Mix well.
3. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed.
4. Serve: Use immediately or refrigerate for up to a week.

Tartar Sauce

Tartar Sauce is a tangy and creamy condiment made with mayonnaise, pickles, and fresh lemon juice. This classic sauce is perfect for pairing with seafood like fish and chips or crab cakes. Its zesty flavor and crunchy texture make it a favorite at any table.

Time: 5 mins | Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp finely chopped pickles
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp capers, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, pickles, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and capers until well combined.
2. Taste and Adjust: Add salt and pepper to taste. If needed, add more lemon juice for tanginess.
3. Serve: Chill for 15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Homemade Teriyaki Sauce

Homemade Teriyaki Sauce is a sweet and savory glaze perfect for stir-fries, grilled meats, or rice bowls. Made with soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic, this easy sauce is far better than store-bought. Its thick, glossy texture clings beautifully to any dish.

Time: 15 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• ½ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, and ginger.
2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
3. Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Serve: Let cool slightly before using as a glaze or marinade.

Classic Burger Sauce

Classic Burger Sauce is a tangy and creamy blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, and seasonings. This versatile sauce enhances the flavors of any burger, sandwich, or even fries. With a hint of sweetness and a touch of spice, it’s a crowd-pleaser for cookouts and casual meals.

Time: 5 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp pickle relish
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle relish, and vinegar until smooth.
2. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting flavors as needed.
3. Serve: Use immediately or store in the fridge for up to a week.

Lemon Caper Sauce

Lemon Caper Sauce is a bright and tangy sauce with the briny flavor of capers and the richness of butter. It’s an excellent choice for drizzling over fish, chicken, or vegetables. This sauce comes together quickly and elevates any dish with its fresh flavors.

Time: 10 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tbsp capers, drained and chopped
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook Garlic: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Capers and Lemon: Stir in capers and lemon juice. Cook for 1 minute to blend the flavors.
3. Finish the Sauce: Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve: Drizzle over fish or chicken and serve warm.

Cajun Cream Sauce

Cajun Cream Sauce is a bold and spicy sauce made with Cajun spices, cream, and garlic. This rich and flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with pasta, chicken, or seafood. Its creamy texture and zesty kick make it a fantastic addition to your dinner table.

Time: 15 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook Garlic: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Cream and Seasoning: Stir in heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
3. Incorporate Cheese: Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Serve: Use immediately over pasta, chicken, or shrimp.

Japanese Sesame Sauce

Japanese Sesame Sauce is a creamy and nutty sauce made with tahini or ground sesame seeds. It’s commonly used as a dipping sauce for hot pot or as a dressing for salads. The rich sesame flavor and slight sweetness make it versatile and delicious.

Time: 10 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• ¼ cup tahini (or ground sesame seeds)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2-3 tbsp water

Instructions

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine tahini, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil.
2. Adjust Consistency: Gradually whisk in water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
3. Serve: Use immediately or refrigerate for up to a week.

Chimichurri Sauce

Chimichurri Sauce is a vibrant and herby Argentine sauce made with fresh parsley, garlic, and olive oil. It’s perfect for drizzling over grilled meats, vegetables, or even bread. The tangy and garlicky flavors make it a fresh and bold addition to any dish.

Time: 10 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
• ½ cup olive oil
• 1 tsp oregano
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Finely chop parsley and garlic.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine parsley, garlic, Apple Cider Vinegar, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir in olive oil until well blended.
3. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Use immediately or store in the fridge for up to a week.

Caramel Sauce

Caramel Sauce is a luscious and sweet sauce perfect for drizzling over desserts like ice cream, cakes, or pancakes. Made with sugar, butter, and cream, this homemade caramel sauce is rich and indulgent. It’s surprisingly easy to make and a must-have for dessert lovers.

Time: 15 mins | Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Melt Sugar: In a medium saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly, until melted and golden brown.
2. Add Butter: Carefully add the butter, one cube at a time, whisking continuously.
3. Incorporate Cream: Slowly pour in heavy cream while whisking. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble up.
4. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and salt. Let cool slightly before using.