16 Frozen Italian Meatball Sauce Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 16, 2024
For many, Italian cuisine is synonymous with comfort food. And what's more comforting than a warm, hearty bowl of meatball sauce? While it may seem daunting to make from scratch, this frozen Italian meatball sauce recipe is surprisingly easy and yields delicious results. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or want to have a comforting meal on hand for a busy weeknight, this recipe has got you covered. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your family and friends with this professional and well-organized introduction to making your own frozen Italian meatball sauce.
Main Ingredients: Frozen Cranberries, Sugar, Orange Juice, Orange Zest
Cranberry sauce is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken. It adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the juicy chicken. Making your own cranberry sauce is easier than you think and will impress your guests. Simply combine fresh cranberries, sugar, water, and orange juice in a saucepan and simmer until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a delicious and festive meal.
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Raspberry Sauce
Main Ingredients: Raspberries, Sugar, Lemon
For a twist on traditional cranberry sauce, try making a raspberry sauce to complement your beer can chicken. This sweet and tart sauce is made by cooking fresh raspberries with sugar and a splash of lemon juice. The result is a bright and flavorful sauce that pairs well with the smoky flavors of the chicken. Serve it on the side or drizzle it over the chicken for a burst of fruity flavor.
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Homemade Meat Sauce
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Italian Sausage, Onion, Garlic
Upgrade your beer can chicken game with a homemade meat sauce. This rich and flavorful sauce is made with ground beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and a blend of herbs and spices. It adds a hearty and savory element to the meal and is perfect for those who love a meatier dish. Serve the meat sauce on top of the chicken or on the side for dipping.
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Best Alfredo Sauce
Main Ingredients: Butter, Garlic, All Purpose Flour, Half And Half Cream
Alfredo sauce is a creamy and indulgent addition to any meal, especially beer can chicken. This homemade version is made with butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The result is a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken. Serve it on top of the chicken or on the side for dipping.
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Alfredo Sauce
Main Ingredients: Heavy Cream, Unsalted Butter, Grated Parmesan Cheese
If you're looking for a lighter version of Alfredo sauce, try this recipe made with Greek yogurt. It still has all the creamy and cheesy flavors of traditional Alfredo sauce, but with less guilt. The tangy yogurt adds a nice balance to the rich chicken and makes for a delicious and healthier option.
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Homemade Cheddar Cheese Sauce
Main Ingredients: Butter, Flour, Milk, Shredded Cheddar Cheese, Salt
Cheddar cheese sauce is a delicious accompaniment to beer can chicken. This homemade version is made with sharp cheddar cheese, butter, and milk. It adds a creamy and cheesy layer to the chicken and is perfect for dipping or drizzling on top. Customize the level of spice by adding in some hot sauce or diced jalapenos.
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Best Homemade Tartar Sauce
Main Ingredients: Mayo, Sweet Pickle Relish, Lemon Juice, Minced Onions
Tartar sauce may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of beer can chicken, but it's a surprisingly delicious pairing. This homemade version is made with mayonnaise, pickles, capers, and lemon juice. It adds a tangy and slightly sweet element to the meal and is perfect for those who love a bit of acidity in their dishes.
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Stir Fry Sauce
Main Ingredients: Low Sodium Soy Sauce, Chicken Broth, Spicy Barbecue
Put an Asian twist on your beer can chicken by making a homemade stir fry sauce. This tangy and slightly sweet sauce is made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and garlic. It adds a delicious glaze to the chicken and pairs well with rice or noodles. Add in your favorite stir fry vegetables for a complete meal.
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Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Cranberry Juice, Pure Maple Syrup, Juice
If you want to take your cranberry sauce to the next level, try making a homemade version with added spices and flavors. This recipe includes cinnamon, orange zest, and a splash of brandy for a festive and flavorful sauce. Serve it with your beer can chicken for a delicious and unique twist on a classic side dish.
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Homemade Alfredo Sauce
Main Ingredients: Butter, Heavy Whipping Cream, Cream Cheese, Minced
For a more elevated version of Alfredo sauce, try making it with white wine. This recipe combines butter, cream, Parmesan cheese, and white wine for a rich and luscious sauce. It pairs perfectly with the juicy beer can chicken and adds a touch of sophistication to the meal. Serve it on the side or drizzle it over the chicken for a decadent experience.
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Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Garlic, Chicken Broth, Crushed
Spaghetti sauce isn't just for pasta, it also makes a delicious topping for beer can chicken. This homemade version is made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of Italian herbs and spices. The result is a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken. Serve it on top of the chicken or on the side for dipping.
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Homemade BBQ Sauce
Main Ingredients: Tomato Sauce, Tomato Paste, Apple Cider Vinegar, Honey
Beer can chicken and BBQ sauce are a match made in heaven. This homemade version is made with ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and a blend of spices. It adds a tangy and sweet element to the chicken, making it a crowd-pleaser. Serve the chicken with a side of homemade BBQ sauce for a delicious and classic combination.
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Tzatziki Sauce
Main Ingredients: Greek Yogurt, Cucumber, Fresh Lemon Juice, Dill
Tzatziki sauce is a refreshing and creamy addition to any meal, including beer can chicken. This homemade version is made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. It adds a cool and tangy flavor to the chicken and is perfect for those who love a bit of a Mediterranean twist. Serve it on the side or drizzle it over the chicken for a burst of flavor.
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Homemade Marinara Sauce
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Garlic Cloves, Fresh Basil Leaves, Crushed
Marinara sauce may seem like an unconventional pairing for beer can chicken, but hear us out. This homemade version is made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and a blend of Italian herbs and spices. It adds a rich and flavorful element to the chicken, making it a unique and tasty dish. Serve it on top of the chicken or on the side for dipping.
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Traditional Chimichurri Sauce
Main Ingredients: Parsely, Garlic, Oregano, Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
Chimichurri sauce is a popular condiment in Argentina, and for good reason. It's a tangy and herbaceous sauce made with parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. It adds a bright and fresh flavor to the beer can chicken and is perfect for those who love a bit of zing in their dishes. Serve it on top of the chicken or on the side for dipping.
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Basil Pesto Sauce
Main Ingredients: Basil Pesto Sauce, Fresh Basil Leaves, Italian Parsley
Pesto sauce is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal, and it's no exception with beer can chicken. This homemade version is made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The result is a flavorful and fragrant sauce that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken. Serve it on top of the chicken or on the side for dipping.
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Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Main Ingredients: Small Onion, Butter, Mushrooms, Garlic, Fresh Thyme
Mushrooms and chicken are a classic combination, and this creamy mushroom sauce takes it to the next level. Made with sautéed mushrooms, cream, and a touch of white wine, this sauce adds a rich and earthy flavor to the chicken. Serve it on top of the chicken or on the side for dipping for a delicious and elegant meal.
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Homemade Red Enchilada Sauce
Main Ingredients: Chipotle Pepper, Adobo Sauce, Chicken Stock, Olive Oil
If you're a fan of Mexican flavors, try making a homemade red enchilada sauce to go with your beer can chicken. This version is made with dried ancho chilies, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices. The result is a rich and slightly spicy sauce that adds a delicious kick to the chicken. Serve it on the side or drizzle it over the chicken for a flavorful and unique meal.
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Remoulade Sauce
Main Ingredients: Mayonnaise, Mustard, Sweet Paprika, Creole Seasoning
Remoulade sauce is a creamy and tangy accompaniment to any dish, including beer can chicken. This homemade version is made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, capers, and a blend of herbs and spices. It adds a zesty and flavorful element to the chicken and is perfect for those who love a bit of a kick in their dishes. Serve it on the side or drizzle it over the chicken for a burst of flavor.
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Teriyaki Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cold Water, Brown Sugar, Soy Sauce, Garlic Powder
For an Asian-inspired twist on beer can chicken, try making a homemade teriyaki sauce. This sweet and savory sauce is made with soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic. It adds a delicious glaze to the chicken and pairs well with rice or noodles. Add in some diced pineapple for a tropical touch.
Ingredients you'll need
Gather the essentials
To make this frozen Italian meatball sauce recipe, you will need the following ingredients: frozen meatballs (store-bought or homemade), crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, onion, olive oil, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper, and sugar. These simple ingredients can be easily found at your local grocery store and are fundamental in creating a flavorful and authentic Italian meatball sauce.
Customize to your taste
While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to add your own twist and make it your own. You can add fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for extra flavor. Want to make it spicy? Add more red pepper flakes or even some hot sauce. You can also experiment with different types of frozen meatballs like turkey, chicken, or vegetarian options. The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own.
The cooking process
Saute the aromatics
To start, heat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Once heated, add minced garlic and diced onion and sauté until fragrant and translucent. This will create a flavorful base for your sauce.
Add the tomatoes
Next, add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste to the pot and stir to combine with the aromatics. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Season and simmer
Now, it's time to add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. Let the sauce simmer for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the meatballs
Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have developed, it's time to add your frozen meatballs to the pot. Allow them to cook in the sauce for about 15 minutes, or until they are heated through.
Cool and freeze
Once your sauce is ready, allow it to cool before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. You can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months, making it the perfect meal prep option for busy days.
Final thoughts
This frozen Italian meatball sauce recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves Italian food. It's easy to make, customizable, and can be stored in the freezer for quick and delicious meals. Whether you're a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, next time you're craving a comforting bowl of meatball sauce, skip the store-bought option and try making your own with this simple and delicious recipe.