Whether you’re grilling, dipping, or just trying to jazz up leftovers, a good sauce or dressing can pull everything together. These condiment recipes skip the frills and get straight to flavor, using ingredients you probably already have.
You’ll find a mix of bold, creamy, tangy, and spicy—from steakhouse-style butters and herby pestos to copycat restaurant dips and fast vinaigrettes. They’re fast, reliable, and guaranteed to add something extra without complicating your kitchen routine.
So whether you’re prepping for a big dinner or just need something to perk up your weekday meals, scroll through and pick a few to try. You might just find one you keep coming back to.
Cilantro Pesto
This version of pesto swaps basil for fresh cilantro and uses pepitas instead of pine nuts. It blends quickly with olive oil, lime juice, and garlic, making it a zesty twist for pasta, tacos, or grilled meats. Great way to use up leftover herbs, too.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Pesto
Homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce: Better Than Any Restaurant Version
Made with pantry staples, this quick sauce skips the artificial stuff but still brings that sweet-tangy punch. It’s ready in about 10 minutes and works for dipping, stir-fry, or tossing with crispy chicken.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce: Better Than Any Restaurant Version
Beurre Blanc
A smooth, buttery sauce made with wine, vinegar, and shallots. It takes a little patience, but the process is straightforward. Perfect for fish, steamed veggies, or a splash over pasta when you want something rich.
Get the Recipe: Beurre Blanc
McDonalds Hot Mustard
No need for a drive-thru run—this easy copycat version nails the sweet heat of McDonald’s hot mustard. Great for dipping nuggets, fries, or spreading on sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: McDonalds Hot Mustard
Mustard Cream Sauce
This 5-minute sauce mixes mustard with cream for a punchy finish that works on pork, chicken, or fish. One ingredient gives it an unexpected boost, making it feel fancy with barely any effort.
Get the Recipe: Mustard Cream Sauce
Elk Steak Marinade Recipe
This marinade helps tenderize lean elk steak and brings out its best flavor. A mix of herbs, oil, and acid does the trick—just a few hours of soaking is enough for juicy, flavorful results.
Get the Recipe: Elk Steak Marinade Recipe
Jalapeño Ranch Dressing
Creamy ranch meets jalapeño heat in this zesty dressing. Use it on salads, tacos, or as a dip for chips or veggies. It blends in minutes and keeps well in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Ranch Dressing
Tomato Confit
Cherry tomatoes slow-cook in olive oil with garlic until soft and flavorful. Spoon it over toast, pasta, cheese boards, or anything that could use a boost of savory sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Confit
Umami Garlic Aioli Recipe
This creamy garlic sauce gets an extra layer of savory flavor from one smart ingredient swap. It’s thick, spreadable, and turns sandwiches or fries into something worth remembering.
Get the Recipe: Umami Garlic Aioli Recipe
Avocado Crema
This simple marinade packs flavor into pork chops with just a few ingredients. It adds depth and keeps the meat juicy—ideal for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Crema
Pork Chop Marinade
These quick pickled green tomatoes come together in just 10 minutes. They’re tangy, crunchy, and great as a topping for burgers, salads, or grain bowls.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chop Marinade
Easy Pickled Green Tomatoes (Only 10 Minutes)
Melted butter mixed with garlic, herbs, lemon, and a touch of heat—this sauce is made for dipping steak, but it’s also great with chicken, shrimp, or roasted veggies.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pickled Green Tomatoes (Only 10 Minutes)
Cowboy Butter for Steak
These jalapeños are lightly smoked, then pickled for a spicy-tangy kick. Add them to burgers, nachos, or eggs for an easy way to punch up flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Butter for Steak
Smoked Pickled Jalapeños
Sweet pineapple meets tangy balsamic in this light, fruity dressing. Shake it up and drizzle over greens, grilled chicken, or tropical-inspired grain bowls.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pickled Jalapeños
Pineapple White Balsamic Vinaigrette
This sauce brings bold garlic and ginger flavor, just like the kind served at hibachi restaurants. It pairs well with grilled meats, stir-fry, or veggies.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple White Balsamic Vinaigrette
Blue Cheese Sauce
Another quick take on the McD’s favorite—bold mustard, vinegar, and sweetness with a bit of kick. Perfect for DIY nuggets night or spreading onto sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Sauce