Homemade Sauces

Mastering these four sauce-thickening methods—roux, cornstarch slurry, beurre manié, and heavy cream—can elevate your cooking from average to exceptional. Each technique has its ideal use, and knowing when and how to apply them makes all the difference in the kitchen. Next time your sauce or gravy is looking a little thin, reach for one of these tried-and-true methods and turn it into a showstopper.

The shift to making your own sauces might seem small—but it brings big benefits. From health to flavor, creativity to cost savings, homemade sauces elevate your entire cooking experience. It’s one of the most rewarding and accessible changes you can make in your kitchen. So next time you reach for that jar on the store shelf, consider this: could you make it better yourself? With a blender, some fresh ingredients, and a little confidence, the answer is a delicious yes.

Compare two Alfredo styles: one made with butter and pasta water, the other with cream, garlic, and Parmesan. Discover which creamy Alfredo sauce suits your taste.