12 batch-cook sauces that make dinner in minutes

Batch cooking sauces can be a game changer for busy weeknights. With a collection of versatile sauces in your fridge or freezer, you can whip up a delicious meal in minutes without compromising on flavor. Here are 12 easy-to-make sauces that can transform your simple dishes into gourmet meals.

Classic Marinara Sauce

Marinara sauce is a staple in many households, and for good reason. It’s incredibly versatile, pairing perfectly with pasta, as a pizza base, or even as a dipping sauce. To make a batch, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar. Let it simmer until thickened, then finish with fresh basil.

When stored in an airtight container, marinara sauce can last up to a week in the refrigerator. Alternatively, freeze it in portions, so you always have some on hand. Reheat it easily, and you have a flavorful base ready to go for a variety of dishes.

Creamy Alfredo Sauce

Alfredo sauce is known for its rich, creamy texture that turns any pasta dish into a comforting meal. To prepare it, melt butter in a saucepan, add garlic, and then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg for extra depth.

This sauce pairs wonderfully with fettuccine, but don’t stop there. It can also be used over baked chicken, drizzled over vegetables, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. Store it in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce

If you love a bit of heat, arrabbiata sauce is a must-try. This fiery tomato sauce gets its kick from red pepper flakes and is a fantastic match for pasta or as a topping for grilled chicken. Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil, add crushed tomatoes, and stir in red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens, and finish with freshly chopped parsley. Arrabbiata sauce freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for batch cooking. Spice up any meal with this sauce, and adjust the heat level to suit your taste.

Pesto Genovese

Pesto Genovese, with its vibrant green color and aromatic basil scent, is a classic Italian sauce that can elevate any dish. Blend fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Use pesto as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or even as a salad dressing. It can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week, or you can freeze it in ice cube trays for single-use portions. Pesto is a versatile addition to your sauce repertoire, adding fresh flavors to your meals.

Tangy Teriyaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce is a sweet and savory delight, perfect for glazing meats or as a marinade. Combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar in a saucepan, and simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency. Add ginger and garlic for an extra flavor boost.

This sauce is ideal for stir-fries, grilled meats, or even as a dipping sauce for sushi. Store it in an airtight container, and it will keep in the refrigerator for up to a month. Teriyaki sauce can turn your simple dishes into a savory sensation with minimal effort.

Zesty Chimichurri Sauce

Origins in Argentina, chimichurri sauce is a zesty, herbaceous accompaniment that’s perfect for grilled meats. To make it, finely chop fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, and red chili. Mix with olive oil, vinegar, and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper.

Chimichurri is not only for meats; it’s also fantastic on roasted vegetables or as a dressing for salads. This sauce stores well in the refrigerator for about a week, so you can enjoy its bright flavors anytime. It adds a refreshing contrast to rich dishes, making it a must-have in your sauce collection.

Rich Bolognese Sauce

Bolognese sauce, a hearty meat-based sauce, is perfect for those who enjoy a more filling meal. Brown ground beef and pork in a pot, then add onions, carrots, and celery. Stir in tomatoes, red wine, and a splash of milk for richness, and let it simmer to perfection.

This sauce is traditionally served with tagliatelle or as a filling for lasagna. However, you can also use it for stuffed peppers or atop a baked potato. Bolognese freezes well, so make a big batch and enjoy comforting meals whenever you please.

Flavorful Curry Sauce

Curry sauce is a flavorful and aromatic addition to your cooking repertoire. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger, then add curry powder and cook until fragrant. Stir in coconut milk, tomatoes, and your choice of protein or vegetables.

Curry sauce is incredibly versatile, accommodating a wide range of ingredients. Serve it over rice or with naan for a complete meal. Store it in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for future use. With its rich spices and creamy texture, curry sauce is sure to impress.

Savory Peanut Sauce

Peanut sauce, with its creamy texture and nutty flavor, is perfect for adding depth to your dishes. Combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, ginger, and a touch of honey or brown sugar. Add water to reach your desired consistency.

This sauce is a great companion to grilled chicken, noodles, or as a salad dressing. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, and you can adjust the spiciness by adding chili paste. Peanut sauce is a delightful way to add a savory punch to your meals.

Smoky BBQ Sauce

BBQ sauce is a summertime favorite, perfect for slathering on ribs, burgers, or chicken. To make your own, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika in a saucepan. Allow it to simmer until thickened.

Customize the sauce to your liking by adding cayenne for heat or liquid smoke for an extra smoky flavor. Store it in the fridge for up to a month in an airtight container. BBQ sauce is an essential for any grilling enthusiast, enhancing the taste of your grilled dishes.

Sweet and Sour Sauce

Sweet and sour sauce is a bold blend of flavors that can liven up any dish. Combine pineapple juice, vinegar, ketchup, and sugar in a saucepan, and simmer until it thickens. Add bell peppers and chunks of pineapple for added texture.

This sauce is perfect for stir-fry dishes, chicken, or even as a dipping sauce for spring rolls. It stores well in the refrigerator for about a week. Sweet and sour sauce brings a delightful balance of flavors that can transform your meal into a culinary delight.

Herbed Tomato Basil Sauce

The combination of tomatoes and basil is a classic, resulting in a fresh and flavorful sauce. Sauté garlic in olive oil, add crushed tomatoes, and season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs like oregano and thyme. Stir in fresh basil leaves before serving.

This sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, as a base for pizza, or even as a topping for grilled fish. It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for longer periods. Herbed tomato basil sauce offers a burst of freshness, making it a versatile staple for any kitchen.