Skip the store-bought packet and make your own homemade taco seasoning recipe that’s bursting with bold flavor and authentic taste. This easy blend of spices, like chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic, comes together in minutes and instantly upgrades ground beef, chicken, or veggies. Once you try this homemade mix, your next taco night will never be the same!

There’s nothing better than DIY taco night with the family! Everyone gets to build their own just the way they like it, which makes dinner fun and easy. I pile mine high with sour cream, cheese, salsa, lettuce, cilantro, and basically every topping in sight, while my kids keep it simple with their favorites. It’s a win for everyone at the table.

I didn’t realize it was so simple to make your own taco seasoning at home. Once you do, you’ll never go back to the store-bought taco seasoning packets again. This homemade version works perfectly with ground beef, ground chicken, or ground turkey, and it’s just as good tossed with roasted veggies, stirred into soups or stews, or sprinkled over taco salads.

It’s a pantry staple that’s cheaper, fresher, and more flavorful than anything store-bought, plus, it’s made with spices you probably already have on hand. No trip to the grocery store required. Mix up a big batch and keep it in your spice drawer for easy, delicious Taco Tuesday nights anytime.

Ingredients For Taco Seasoning

This Homemade Taco seasoning recipe is a total game-changer! Smoky, savory, and full of depth. Each spice pulls its weight to create that perfect balance of heat and flavor.

• Chili Powder: the bold, earthy base that gives this blend its signature flavor
• Ground Cumin: adds warmth and a hint of nuttiness
• Smoked Paprika: brings a rich, smoky undertone
• Garlic Powder: savory depth in every bite
• Oregano: adds a subtle herby note
• Coriander: brightens and balances the spice
• Onion Powder: rounds everything out with mellow sweetness
• Fine Sea Salt: enhances and ties all the flavors together
• Black Pepper: sharp bite for balance
• Cornstarch: helps the seasoning cling to meat and thicken sauces
• Cayenne Pepper: gives it that touch of heat that makes everything pop

Simple ingredients, big flavor! This mix is better than any store-bought packet and stays fresh for ages.

How To Make This Recipe

Homemade seasoning doesn’t get easier than this! Just combine and shake!

1. Combine: Add all the spices to a jar or a small bowl with a lid.
2. Mix: Shake or stir until well combined.
3. Store: Keep in a cool, dark place for up to 2 years.

That’s it. No fillers, no preservatives – just pure flavor, ready to elevate your chili, tacos, and weeknight dinners.

How Much Taco Seasoning Should I Use?

One packet of store-bought seasoning typically contains about 2 tablespoons of seasoning. This is enough to flavor 1 pound of ground meat. You’ll want to use the same amount with this recipe: 2 to 3 tablespoons of homemade taco seasoning per pound of beef, chicken, turkey, or veggies, depending on how bold you like the flavor. Start with 2 tablespoons, give it a taste after it cooks, and add more if you want that extra kick of spice and depth.

Why Do You Need Cornstarch in Taco Seasoning?

You’ll notice that there’s cornstarch in taco seasoning, and that’s purely for a little thickening when things are cooking. I’m sure you’ve noticed that something cooked in taco seasoning gets a little saucy? Yup, that’s why and you for sure don’t want to skip it.

This homemade taco seasoning is the perfect way to elevate your next taco night! Keep a jar on hand to season everything from tacos and burrito bowls to roasted veggies and soups. Once you taste the difference of this easy blend of spices, you’ll never go back to the packet again.

More Homemade Condiment Recipes You’ll Love:

• Red Enchilada Sauce
• Tomatillo Cilantro Ranch Dressing
• Pizza Sauce
• BBQ Rub
• All CONDIMENT RECIPES!

Homemade Taco Seasoning Video

If you’ve ever wondered how restaurants get their chicken so juicy and flavorful, the secret is simple — it’s all in the brine! This easy chicken brine recipe takes just a few minutes to mix up, and it transforms your whole chicken into something truly special.

The salt and honey work together to lock in moisture while the lemon, garlic, and herbs add a beautiful depth of flavor. Once you try it, you’ll never roast chicken without brining again!

Why Brining Makes the Best Chicken

Brining helps poultry stay juicy. The salt in the brine actually changes the structure of the meat’s proteins, allowing them to absorb and hold onto more water. That means less moisture loss during cooking and a tender, succulent bite every time.

The salt also tenderizes the meat slightly, breaking down muscle fibers so the chicken cooks up more tender and evenly.

Instead of just seasoning the surface, brining also lets flavor soak deep into the meat. Every bite tastes perfectly seasoned — not bland in the center and salty on the outside.

Simple Ingredients for a Flavorful Brine

• Water: The base that helps distribute the salt and flavors evenly.
• Kosher Salt: Draws moisture in and out of the chicken, resulting in juicy, seasoned meat.
• Honey: Adds a subtle sweetness and helps with browning during roasting.
• Peppercorns: Infuse mild spice and depth into the brine.
• Lemons: Brighten the flavor and help tenderize the meat.
• Bay Leaves: Add an earthy, aromatic note.
• Parsley & Thyme: Fresh herbs that lend light, savory flavor.
• Garlic: Deepens the flavor and complements the herbs beautifully.
• Whole Chicken: The star of the show — brined to tender, juicy perfection.

Step-by-Step: How to Brine a Whole Chicken

1. Dissolve: Mix the water, salt and honey in a large pot over medium heat and stir until the salt is dissolved. Remove from the heat and let the water cool.
2. Brine: Add the remaining ingredients to the pot, then add the chicken to the brine solution and let it brine in the fridge overnight.

How Long to Brine Chicken

For best results, brine your chicken for 8–12 hours, or overnight.

Once you start brining your chicken, you’ll never go back! It’s such a simple step, but it makes all the difference — juicy, flavorful, and perfectly tender every time. Whether you’re roasting for Sunday dinner or meal prepping for the week, this chicken brine will take your cooking to the next level.

Now if you’re wondering how to cook this perfectly brined whole chicken, our go-to chicken recipe is our melt-in-your-mouth buttery potatoes and chicken. My kids have labeled this their favorite dinner!

More Chicken Dinner Recipes:

• Honey Roasted Chicken
• Lemon Herb Spatchcock Chicken
• Best Oven Roasted Chicken
• Smashed Feta Chicken

Watch How This Brine Recipe is Made…

A 4-ingredient homemade popcorn seasoning recipe that will take the flavor of late-night snacking to the next level!

My family loves popcorn! A few years ago our friends told us that on days they don’t want to cook dinner they make protein shakes and popcorn, and we hopped right on that train! We usually stick to buttered popcorn or rosemary popcorn when it’s for dinner, but when it’s movie night our other favorites include marshmallow popcorn (Cade’s favorite), kettle corn (Carrian’s favorite) and caramel corn (the kids’ favorite!)

Caramel Popcorn Seasoning is a sweet popcorn seasoning that is easy to make and adds a delicious flavor to your homemade popcorn.  

Learning how to make flavored popcorn seasoning is super simple and it makes the perfect gift for neighbors around the holidays! Make popcorn at home today and try out my mom’s perfect caramel popcorn seasoning!

Ingredients for Homemade Caramel Popcorn Seasoning

Salt: Balances all the sugars, enhances flavor, and keeps the seasoning from being one-note sweet. It also makes the popcorn taste more snackable.

Powdered Sugar: Provides a very fine, quick-dissolving sweetness that clings easily to the popcorn. Its texture helps coat evenly without making the popcorn soggy.

Turbinado Sugar: Adds a light molasses flavor with larger crystals that give a bit of crunch. It brings a more complex sweetness than regular white sugar.

Light Brown Sugar: Contributes a deeper, caramel-like sweetness thanks to its higher molasses content. It gives warmth and a richer flavor that pairs really well with buttery popcorn.

How to Make Homemade Popcorn Seasoning

1. Blend: Add the 4 ingredients to a blender or spice grinder and blend until mixed well.
2. Make Popcorn: Pop popcorn (make from popcorn kernels or use microwave bagged popcorn), however much you want! Drizzle with melted butter and then sprinkle with the caramel popcorn seasoning and stir to combine (or put in a big bowl with a lid and shake until well coated).

How To Make Seasoning to Stick to Popcorn

The drizzling of the butter over the top of the popcorn is essential to making sure every homemade popcorn kernel gets coated with sweetness! After buttering, sprinkle your seasoning, place a lid on your bowl or popcorn maker and shake everything to coat. Pour it into a large bowl and add more seasoning to taste.

Load it Up with Mix-Ins!

Once you’ve made the caramel corn, it’s super fun to add some mix ins and the kids love it! Some great ideas for mix-ins:

• Peanuts
• m&m’s
• Butterscotch Chips
• Pecans
• Mini Marshmallows

Storing Popcorn Seasoning

Caramel popcorn seasoning should be stored at room temperature. Keep in a dry place and keep away from moisture. It will keep for 6 months.

This is a family-friendly recipe that transforms regular popcorn into the perfect mid-afternoon or evening treat. The sweetness of the sugar with the saltiness of the butter is what makes this homemade caramel popcorn recipe to die for!

More Snacky Treats to Try:

• Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels
• Birthday Cake Protein Balls
• Coconut Sweet Chex Mix
• Marshmallow Popcorn
• Caramel Bugles

Whipped Cream Cream Cheese Frosting is a dreamy blend of rich, tangy cream cheese and light, fluffy whipped cream. Silky and smooth with just the right hint of sweetness, it’s the perfect topping for cakes, cupcakes, and fruit.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Whipped Cream Frosting

You only need 5 ingredients to make this easy whip cream frosting with cream cheese. Here is what you’ll need:

• Heavy Whipping Cream
• Cream Cheese
• Powdered Sugar
• Salt
• Vanilla Extract

The measurements for each ingredient can be found in the recipe card at the end of the post.

How to Make Whip Cream Cream Cheese Frosting

Want the creamiest, fluffiest frosting ever? Whip up whipped cream, beat cream cheese until smooth and add a little powdered sugar to sweeten things up. This Cream Cheese Whipped Cream Frosting is the lightest, and most delicious frosting ever! Here are the steps in a little more details:

1. Beat: Add the whipping cream to a mixing bowl and beat until stiff peaks form.
2. Combine: In a separate bowl, add the cream cheese, powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla and mix until well combined and smooth.
3. Fold: Add the whipped cream to the cream cheese mixture and fold in until well combined.

The recipe card at the end of the post contains all the information you need to make this recipe. The photos below show each step of the recipe.

Can This Frosting Be Colored?

Yes absolutely! We prefer to use food coloring gel for the best color. Adding food dye to the frosting makes it perfect for any festive occasion…holidays, baby showers, Superbowl parties, graduations, etc.

How to Use This Frosting

Whip cream and cream cheese frosting goes great on op of cupcakes and cakes of course. It also make a delicious dip for fruit. There’s no reason to stop there either! Use it on cheesecake or pie too! It’s so creamy with a slight tanginess, perfect for just about any dessert!

Storage Tips

Unused frosting should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 5 days. When you are ready to use it again, you’ll want to let it sit at room temperature for few minutes so it will become spreadable again.

This quick and easy recipe for whip cream and cream cheese frosting is the perfect addition to your favorite cakes and cupcakes. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a light and fluffy frosting that will elevate your desserts to the next level.

More Tasty Frosting Recipes:

• Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting
• Spice Cake Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
• Chocolate Cupcakes with Strawberry Frosting
• Lemon Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting
• Apple Cake with Caramel Frosting
• Lemon Cake with Coconut Frosting

Watch How This Frosting Recipe is Made…

Add a burst of flavor to your salads with this simple and nutritious creamy basil dressing recipe. Made with fresh ingredients, it’s the perfect addition to your healthy meal options.

This is one of those recipes that has evolved over time and has become one of my favorites. I drew some inspiration from our creamy avocado cilantro dressing, but in this salad dressing recipe, I mix up the herbs and amounts sometimes depending on what I have on hand or what is in season. I’ve even served it over roasted corn for a corn salad once. So good! It’s just one of my go-to, most favorite things ever.

We used this fresh basil salad dressing on our BLT pasta salad once and we have never used any other dressing on it since. It is just so bright and fresh and the perfect creaminess and zesty flavor for that pasta salad recipe. Scroll down to the section below for more ideas of how to use this dressing recipe.

Ingredients for Creamy Basil Dressing

This creamy basil salad dressing is a perfect blend of fresh, vibrant herbs and smooth, rich flavors. Made with simple, yet delicious ingredients, it brings a burst of aromatic basil combined with the creaminess of Greek yogurt and mayo. Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delightful dressing:

• Plain Greek Yogurt: Lightens up the dressing a little and adds great protein.
  • Possible substitute: sour cream
• Mayonnaise: Adds more creaminess and gives a little acidity to the dressing.
• Buttermilk: Helps thin out the dressing to a good consistency while keeping the dressing tangy and fresh.
• Fresh Herbs: Basil, Parsley, Dill and Chives — Everything must be fresh, no other option here.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds delicious umami undertones to the dressing and some acidity.
• Seasonings: Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Kosher Salt and Black Pepper

The measurements for each ingredient can be found in the recipe card at the end of the post.

How to Make Easy Homemade Basil Dressing

This creamy basil dressing recipe is both easy to make and good for you. Perfect for adding some flavor to your favorite greens. Let me show you how easy it is to make…

1. Blend: Add all the ingredients for dressing to a blender and blend until smooth.
   • NOTE: You can also use a food processor or immersion blender.

Yep, that’s it! Only one step! The recipe card below also contains all these instructions. You can also print or save the recipe there.

Storage Tips

Extra salad dressing should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. My favorite way to store it is in a mason jar with a lid. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

What to Pair with Creamy Basil Dressing

Of course this basil dressing goes great on salads…any combinations of greens will taste great with this dressing. But no need to stop there! It can be used in so many different ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Marinade for chicken or beef
• Topping for grilled chicken
• Dipping sauce for fresh veggies (crudités) or bread
• Pasta sauce
• Spread on a sandwich
• Topping for roasted potatoes
• Drizzled over the top of tomato slices and fresh mozzarella slices

We would love to hear how you use this creamy basil dressing! Leave a comment and let us know!

This creamy basil dressing is not only delicious, but also healthy and easy to make. Perfect for salads, as a dip, or drizzled over grilled vegetables. You’re going to want to use this dressing all summer long!

More Homemade Dressing Recipes:

• Creamy Avocado Cilantro Lime Dressing
• Blue Cheese Dressing
• Creamy Tomatillo Ranch Dressing
• Pomegranate Raspberry Dressing
• Tzatziki Sauce
• All our SALAD RECIPES!

Watch How to Make our Creamy Basil Herb Dressing Recipe

This is the recipe you never knew you were missing! Creamy homemade coconut peanut butter is a little bit of heaven on earth and you can make it in 5 minutes or less!

A trip to Hawaii last year was the perfect end to our daughter’s senior year of high school. We had an awesome time and came home inspired to make a few things at home, starting with the coconut peanut butter.

At Waialua Bakery in Haleiwa I sampled a coconut peanut butter that I’ve been craving ever since. In fact, if you know where I can get Coconut Peanut Butter let me know because it is sooo delicious! I immediately began testing at home and found out that 1. you need to use the right coconut, always dried, never fresh and 2. slather it on everything!!!

What Do I Need to Make Coconut Peanut Butter?

This homemade peanut butter recipe only takes 5 ingredients and I love knowing exactly what is going into a recipe. Here is what you will need:

• Bare Toasted Coconut Chips: These can be found at most grocery stores – Walmart, Kroger, Harmon’s, Target, and Amazon of course!
• Unsalted Dry Roasted Peanuts: Make sure the peanuts are roasted and not raw and you’ll definitely want unsalted.
• Vanilla: adds flavor
• Salt: enhances all the flavors
• Brown Sugar: adds a touch of sweetness, maple sugar could also be used

The measurements for each ingredient can be found in the recipe card down below. This is meant to just be an overview of items you will need.

How to Make Coconut Peanut Butter

You won’t find an easier recipe to make! Grab a blender, a rubber spatula and some measuring cups and spoons…

1. Blend: Add the coconut chips to a blender and blend until grainy.
2. Cream: Add the peanuts and blend until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides if needed to get all those peanuts blended.
3. Finish: Add the few remaining ingredients and blend until smooth.

The recipe card can be found down below with all the ingredients and instructions. You can also print or save the recipe there.

How to Use Coconut Peanut Butter

I use this peanut butter with coconut wherever I can think of. It is so dang good! My typical go-to is on top of lightly toasted multi-grain bread. Sometimes I just have the toast plain with the peanut butter only and other times I’ll load it up with sliced fruit and other toppings. Here are some other ideas:

• Add it to a smoothie in place of peanut butter (or other nut butter) like our chocolate banana smoothie bowl.
• Use it as a topping for waffles or pancakes.
• Drizzle it over some oatmeal or yogurt.
• Use it on its own as a dip for apples or bananas. Mix it with yogurt to make a creamy peanut butter yogurt dip!
• It would be amazing in our peanut butter monster energy balls.
• Later on top of a rice cake for a tasty midday snack.

Can I Use Peanut Butter Instead of Peanuts?

Yes, you can definitely just use store bought creamy peanut butter. It will be sweeter because peanut butter has a lot of sugar in it. Natural peanut butter would be a less sweet option.

Tips and Tricks

Use dry roasted peanut for the best results. When they are blended, they are smoother than raw peanuts are. Roasted peanuts also have a deeper peanut flavor.

If you can’t find Bare Toasted Coconut Chips, any dehydrated coconut chip should work.

When you’re making the peanut butter, stop the blender occasionally and scrape down sides with rubber spatula if needed.

Stir the coconut peanut butter before each use as the natural oils will separate as it sits.

How Long Does Coconut Peanut Butter Last?

Store coconut peanut butter in an airtight container and room temp or in fridge. It will keep for about a month at room temperature or up to 3 months in the refrigerator. I don’t recommend freezing it.

Imagine spreading the velvety richness of freshly made coconut peanut butter onto a warm slice of toast. With every bite, you savor the perfect balance of smooth, creamy peanuts and the tropical sweetness of coconut. It’s a luscious, nutty treat that you never knew you were missing! It takes me right back to Hawaii…paradise!

More Tasty Homemade Toppings

• Apple Butter
• Homemade Dulce de Leche
• Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream
• Strawberry Jam
• Blender Lemon Curd
• Oreo Biscoff Spread

Watch How This Recipe is Made…

Recreate the delicious mascarpone whipped cream from popular food truck Waffle Love with this easy copycat recipe. Perfect for topping off your homemade waffles!

I originally was looking to make a thicker, creamier whipped cream to accompany our Liege Waffles, or as you all know them, Waffle Love waffles, and while I did just that, I also threw in some clear vanilla and my goodness, it took the taste to a whole new level!!! 4 ingredients is all you need!

Ingredients for Mascarpone Whipped Cream

You won’t believe that it only takes 4 ingredients to make this tasty dessert topping! Adding mascarpone to the whipped cream helps stabilize it. We have a stabilized whipped cream recipe already on the blog, but if you don’t want to mess with gelatin, try mascarpone instead! Here is what you will need:

• Heavy Whipping Cream: you’ll need a pint of whipping cream to make this recipe
• Clear Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla is essential in this whipped cream and the clear vanilla makes helps it stay bright white.
  • If you don’t have clear vanilla, regular vanilla extract will work fine.
• Powdered Sugar: also called confectioners’ sugar
• Mascarpone: can be found in the grocery store near the ricotta cheese or cream cheese

The measurements of each ingredient can be found in the recipe card at the end of the post.

What is Mascarpone Cheese?

Mascarpone is an Italian soft cheese made from cow’s milk and coagulated with an acid of some kind. It’s like Italian cream cheese. It is extra creamy and velvety in texture has the most dreamy flavor. It is similar to cream cheese but more sweet. You can find it at the grocery store near the cream cheese in a small white container usually.

How to Make Mascarpone Whipped Cream Recipe

If you thought 4 ingredients was simple, just wait and see how easy mascarpone chantilly cream is to make! Just 2 steps:

1. Soft Peaks: Add the heavy cream to a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, and beat until soft peaks form. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
2. Stiff Peaks: Add in the rest of the ingredients and beat until stiff peaks form.

This whipped cream will be stabilized enough to put in a piping bag pipe on cupcakes or pies. The complete recipe can be found in the recipe card down below. Keep scrolling for all the details.

How to Use Whipped Mascarpone Cream

Now that I’ve figured out this whipped cream recipe, I want to put it on top of all the things. It really does go perfectly on top of any dessert. Of course it goes on top of our copycat Waffle Love liege waffles, but here are some other options too:

• Breakfast: Buttermilk Pancakes, French Toast, Crepes
• Pies: Razzleberry Pie, Key Lime Pie, Banana Cream Pie
• Cakes: Lemon Jello Cake, Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake, Chocolate Lava Cake
• Other Desserts: Peach Cobbler, Apple Crisp, Raspberry Lemon Tart Bars

It also makes a great dip for fruit! Strawberries dipped in this whipped cream is divine!

Substitute for Mascarpone

If you can’t find mascarpone, cream cheese will be your best substitute, though it will have a slightly different taste.

Storage Tips

Whipped mascarpone cream doesn’t store extremely well and should be used quickly after being made. If you do have leftovers, it should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It will deflate and become more runny over time.

I also would not recommend freezing mascarpone whipped either. The texture becomes grainy when it is thawed.

I want to bury my face into a bowl of this creamy mascarpone whipped cream! Learn how to make this easy copycat version of Waffle Love’s famous whipped cream. This creamy topping is the perfect addition to any breakfast or dessert dish.

More Copycat Recipes to Try:

• Cafe Rio Sweet Pork
• Texas Roadhouse Loaded Sweet Potatoes
• PF Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps
• J.Dawg’s Special Sauce
• Disneyland’s Pomme Frites

Watch How to Make This Recipe…

Looking for a healthy and delicious pasta sauce recipe? This garden veggie homemade marinara sauce is packed with flavorful vegetables and can be made in under 30 minutes. Watch the video tutorial and try it out tonight!

Every kid loves pizza, many love spaghetti so a marinara sauce is a great way to get your children to enjoy more veggies. Try vegetarian marinara sauce!

I’ve never been a big fan of sneaking veggies into food as I’d rather my kids learn to love vegetables, but I see nothing wrong with packing something full of them in an easy to eat way like vegetarian spaghetti sauce.

What is Sautéing?

The word sauté (pronounced “saw-TAY”) refers to a form of dry-heat cooking that uses a hot pan and a small amount of fat to cook the food.

Why Sauté?

There’s only one step that I insist on for this entire recipe, please make sure you take a moment to sauté the vegetables before making the sauce. Think of it like corn or grilled corn. Isn’t grilled corn so much more delicious? Same thing with sautéing vegetables for a dish, the heat breaks them down and really brings out the flavor.

I mean, it’s like eating raw carrots with your roast at Sunday dinner or nice and caramelized carrots from baking in the pan with that beefy babe.

I think that’s one of my favorite tips about cooking. To some it may seem obvious but to a large portion of the public something like sautéing everything versus just throwing it all in a pot to simmer may not be.

Ingredients for Vegetable Marinara Sauce

This sauce really doesn’t need much fuss either. A bunch of veggies, a little cheese and a dollop of butter and you’re good to go. The secret is a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. I don’t know why it works but it does. I’ll wait for America’s Test Kitchen to figure that one out. Here is the ingredients list:

• Olive Oil
• Herbs and Seasonings: Crushed Red Pepper Flakes, Kosher Salt, Fresh Basil Leaves, Dried Oregano and Black Pepper
• Vegetables: Garlic, Zucchini, Carrot, Baby Bella Mushrooms, Red Bell Pepper, Yellow Bell Pepper, Orange Bell Pepper and Crushed Tomatoes
• Tomato Sauce
• Brown Sugar
• Butter
• Parmesan Cheese
• Balsamic Vinegar

The measurements and details for each ingredient can be found in the recipe card at the end of the post.

How to Make Homemade Marinara Sauce

Honestly, the most time consuming part of this chopping all the veggies before sautéing them. After that, it’s a total breeze! Here are all the steps:

1. Sauté: Place a dutch oven on the stove top over medium heat and add the olive. Let it heat up until it’s shimmering. Then add the garlic and crush red pepper. Stir for about a minute and then add the rest of the vegetables.
2. Stir: Let all the vegetables (including the canned tomatoes) cook until tender stirring occasionally.
3. Simmer: Add the remaining ingredients and bring it to a simmer for about 10 minutes.
   • PRO TIP: If you are trying to hide the vegetables from picky eaters, you can run the sauce through a blender or use an immersion blender at this point in the recipe.
4. Serve: Serve immediately over cooked pasta or use it on a pizza.

All of these instructions can also be found in the recipe card at the end of the post.

Is There a Difference Between Spaghetti Sauce and Marinara Sauce?

In the U.S., marinara is a vegetarian Italian style tomato sauce and it may have olive oil and cheese like parmesan mixed in. But never meat or anchovies. Spaghetti sauce in the U.S. is culinary slang for manufactured tomato sauce served over spaghetti.

How to Use Vegetable Marinara Sauce

The number of ways to use a simple marinara sauce are endless! It’s so versatile and delicious. You can make our pizzeria style pizza dough and use this marina sauce as pizza sauce and then top it with all your favorite pizza toppings. It makes a great dip for breadsticks as well.

It makes a great sauce for lasagna or spaghetti or on type of pasta…tortellini or ravioli. It would be great on meatball sandwiches using our hoagie rolls too!

And of course, any time I have a delicious sauce, I need some fabulous bread to sop it up. Some garlic bread, focaccia bread or our delicious artisan bread are both great options.

Storage Tips

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep for up to 4 days.

This is a recipe that once cools, freezes really well in a ziploc with all of the air pressed out. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to reheat just put it in the fridge to defrost and then bring it back to temperature. Use it in spaghetti, lasagna or anything that would normally take a sauce.

Elevate your pasta dishes with this delicious garden veggie homemade marinara sauce recipe. Packed with fresh vegetables and bursting with flavor, this sauce is sure to become a family favorite. 

Other Italian Sauce Recipes

• Italian Bolognese Sauce
• Spaghetti Sauce
• Pizza Sauce
• The Ultimate Pesto Recipe
• Easy Beef Ragu
• Cilantro Pesto
• Shortcut Chicken Parmesan

Watch Vegetarian Marinara Video

Give your next ham dinner a major upgrade with two ridiculously good Dipping Sauces For Ham. We’re talking everything from a sweet honey-mustard that deserves its own fan club to a tangy piña colada sauce that basically puts your ham on vacation. Trust me…ham has never tasted this fun.

These are the best easy ham sauce recipes that I’ve ever had.

Oh, Christmas Ham, Oh Christmas Ham, and delicious ham dipping sauces… Who needs a song about a tree when you’ve got the world’s best brown sugar ham?!

My family has this funny way of eating ham, we eat it with applesauce. It is truly delicious. I mean, apples and pork are meant to be together and while many may not do actual applesauce they really should. We always use my mom’s homemade applesauce which is 10x better than any ol’ can. Or we did, until we found these ham dipping sauces.

My cousin, Robyn works as the manager for the LDS Church’s Catering and she is the one that introduced me to these easy ham dipping sauces.

I don’t know what it is about ham, but I just have to have a little sauce to dip it in.

Ingredients for Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce for Ham

This honey mustard recipe is my personal favorite, which is funny because I’m not a lover of mustard. I tell you what though, it is wonderful with the ham. DELIGHTFUL. You only need 3 simple ingredients:

• Mayonnaise: Duke’s is our favorite brand of mayo, but you can use whatever brand is your favorite.
• Honey: adds natural sweetness
• Mustard: Just regular yellow mustard is our preference, but you change up the flavor to your liking with dijon mustard, stone ground mustard, etc.

The measurements needed are listed in the recipe card below.

Ingredients for Pina Colada Dipping Sauce for Ham

The pina colada sauce is most everyone’s favorite. It’s so fun and creamy and pairs so well with the ham! Here is what you will need:

• Cream of Coconut: head to the alcohol section of your local grocery store and it will be by the margarita mixes
• Sour Cream: use full fat sour cream for maximum flavor and creaminess
• Crushed Pineapple: make sure you drain it before adding to the sauce
• Desiccated Coconut: has a more fine and powdery texture than shredded coconut and a milder flavor

Again, the measurements are listed in the recipe card at the end of the post.

How to Make Dipping Sauce For Ham

I probably don’t even need to include this section because there’s nothing to it, but here are basic steps for making each sauce:

For the Honey Mustard

1. Combine: Place all of the ingredients in a small bowl and stir until combined and smooth.
2. Refrigerate: Keep in the fridge until ready to serve.

For the Pina Colada Sauce

1. Stir: Place the cream of coconut and sour cream in a bowl and mix to combine.
2. Combine: Add the remaining ingredients and stir to combine everything together.
3. Refrigerate: Store in the fridge until ready to serve.

Ham Recipes for Dipping Sauces

Any of our ham recipes taste delicious with both of this dipping sauces. I’ve tried them all, and all of them are only better with these sauces. Here are our best ham recipes:

• World’s Best Brown Sugar Ham
• Honey Baked Ham
• Slow Cooker Ham
• Garlic Honey Mustard Ham

What Else to Use this Sauce On

If you have leftover sauce after eating all the ham, both of these sauces are great with veggies, crackers, pretzels or even with grilled chicken.

Storing Dipping Sauce for Ham

Both of these dipping sauces should be stored in the refrigerator in separate airtight containers. I always use mason jars to store them! They will keep for up to a week. I wouldn’t recommend freezing these sauces.

This they store so well, you can make them up to 3-4 days ahead of time too. One less thing to make for your holiday meal!

No one in our family can enjoy a ham without applesauce, homemade honey mustard, or piña colada sauce these days. Plus, pretty sauces on an Easter or Christmas dinner table perfectly complete the meal.

Looking for the perfect dipping sauce for your holiday ham? These easy and delicious recipes will add a burst of flavor to any meal.

Try Our Other Yummy Sauces:

• Tzatziki Sauce
• Hummus
• Pico de Gallo
• Guacamole
• Cilantro Lime Dressing

How to Make Ham Dipping Sauces

Learn how to make the perfect turkey gravy for the holiday season with this step by step guide! Impress your guests with this delicious and easy recipe.

It has been over 10 years that I’ve sat down with the intent of posting about how to make turkey gravy. But then I get busy with Thanksgiving and the next thing you know, we are moving on to Christmas and I didn’t even notice that I failed once again. And so this year it’s March, and I’m tackling Thanksgiving. You’re welcome. 

Turkey gravy is something I’m a little picky about. I don’t want it clumpy, lumpy, salty or herby. I want it perfectly flavored and perfectly smooth. The richness comes from cooking down the neck, giblets or leg meat and the best part is…

YOU CAN MAKE IT AHEAD!

AND FREEZE IT!

So let’s jump in!

Ingredients for Homemade Turkey Gravy

We are going to start this recipe by making our own turkey stock which we will then use to make the gravy. Here is what you will need for each step:

For the Homemade Turkey Stock

• Turkey Neck, Giblets, Legs, Wings, etc: We will roast and simmer these to infuse maximum turkey flavor. You can even add a ham hock if you have one for deeper flavor.
• Olive Oil
• Seasonings and Herbs: Salt, Fresh Parsley, Black Pepper, Bay Leaves, Fresh Thyme
• Vegetables: Celery, Carrots, Onion, Baby Bella Mushrooms, Garlic
• Chicken Broth
• Turkey Trimmings
• White Cooking Wine

For the Gravy

• Unsalted Butter
• All-Purpose Flour
• Turkey Drippings
• Homemade Turkey Stock

The measurements for each ingredient can be found in the recipe card down below. Keep scrolling for all the details.

Turkey Gravy Recipe: Step by Step Guide

This is a make-ahead recipe, so it should be started a few days, to even a few weeks before Thanksgiving. If you don’t have time, store-bought will work but will not be as flavorful. You’ll also be surprised about how easy it is to make your own. Here are the basic steps:

1: Roast the Turkey Pieces

• Place the turkey neck, giblets, legs, wings, etc on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toss with the salt, pepper, parsley, and bay leaf.
• Roast at 425 degrees F for 50-60 minutes. When it is done, drain the fat.

2: Chop the Vegetables

• While the turkey is roasting, chop all the vegetables. For the garlic, just chop the whole bulb in half and use one half leaving the skins on.

3: Deglaze the Pan

• Add a little cooking wine to the cookie sheet that the turkey roasted on and scrap all the little brown bits from the bottom.

4: Simmer the Broth

• Pour 2 cups of chicken broth to a dutch oven (or saucepan) and add the chopped vegetables and roasted turkey to the pot. Add the wine and bring it to a simmer.
• Pour in the rest of the broth, the thyme and garlic cloves, bring to a simmer and then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 1 hour.

5: Strain and Cool

• Pour everything through a fine mesh strainer, discard all the meat and veggies, and store the broth in the fridge until cool. Strain off the fat once cool.

6: Make the Gravy

• Using a new sauce pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and increase to medium-high heat. Stir the roux constantly until the mixture is a deep golden brown.
• Reduce the heat to low and whisk in 2 cups of the turkey broth we made. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer. Let it simmer until it thickens. Add the turkey drippings of you have any from your roasted turkey.
• Reduce the heat to low again, add the remaining turkey broth and stir together. Increase the heat to medium-high heat, bring to a simmer and let it simmer until it thickens.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

All of these instructions can also be found in the recipe card at the end of the post. Keep scrolling for all the details.

What to Eat with Turkey Gravy

Creamy mashed potatoes is the first thing that comes to mind, but homemade turkey gravy is also delicious on top of stuffing, as a dip for your homemade rolls, and on top of your turkey, of course! To be honest, I just drizzle it all over my entire Thanksgiving plate.

Can I Use Cornstarch Instead of Flour?

If you’re looking to make gravy that is gluten-free, you can use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the gravy. Instead of creating the roux with butter and flour, heat the turkey stock and drippings to a simmer. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of water with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and whisk to combine to create a slurry. Slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the turkey stock and whisk until thickened.

You’ll lose a little richness in flavor since you’ll be missing the butter, but this is an option for thickening the gravy.

Cornaby’s EZ Gel is another great option for thickening gravy. Add the turkey stock and drippings to a saucepan and bring to a simmer. Whisk in 1 tablespoon of EZ Gel at a time until desired consistency.

Storing and Make Ahead

The thing I love most about this recipe is that you can make it up to 2 weeks ahead of time. That means one less thing to do on Thanksgiving day. There are a couple of options for making it ahead. First, you can freeze the turkey stock, then let it thaw and make the gravy as directed.

The other option is to the make the gravy and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days or freeze it for up to 2 weeks. Reheat it on the stovetop.

My Ideal Thanksgiving Menu

This easy turkey gravy recipe needs to be on your Thanksgiving menu this year, and here are my other favorite Thanksgiving recipes to make as well:

• Roasted Turkey
• Mashed Potatoes
• Dinner Rolls
• Stuffing
• Sweet Potato Casserole
• Green Bean Casserole
• Cranberry Sauce
• Roasted Carrots and Parsnips
• And ALLLLL the PIES!

Impress your family and friends with this delicious homemade turkey gravy recipe made from scratch using drippings from your Thanksgiving turkey. Perfect for the holidays or any special meal!

How to Make Turkey Gravy Ahead of Time