Simple Homemade Marinade Recipes AKA "Dump" Recipes

Simple homemade marinade recipes are know as "dump" recipes in freezer cooking lingo.

There's no need to buy expensive marinades that are full of preservatives or pre-seasoned meats that cost twice as much.

Making your own simple sauces and homemade marinades is easy.


Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links and I will earn a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through those links. I only recommend products and brands I trust.

What are "Dump" Recipes?


The name comes from the technique of dumping meat and marinade into a freezer bag to be used later.

You freeze the mixture and let it thaw in the fridge at least overnight.

While the meat is thawing it is also infused with the marinade flavor. Two birds, one stone.

Marinade recipes, grilled marinated steak.

What Variations Are There?


As many as you can think of.

The combination of freezable sauces and different types and cuts of meat are endless.

Let your imagination go wild.

Use beef, chickem, pork or other meats you want.

Avoid using marinades made with yogurt because it can seperate in the freezer.

Tips and Techniques

  • Some ingredients float. Instead of adding these to the liquid ingredients when making a large batch just divide them evenly into the freezer bags and pour the liquid on top.

  • Make sure you cover the whole surface of the meat so that the flavor is evenly distributed.

  • Get as much air as possible out of the freezer bag, this saves space and prevents freezer burn.

  • Freeze the bags on a cookie sheet so they can be as flat as possible. 
  • Freezing things flat makes them easier to stack and helps you save space.
  • Cut meat into strips before freezing in marinade. The strips cook faster and are perfect for stir fries, fajitas, quesadillas and similar dishes.
  • Cubed meat is great for kabobs and summer grilling.

Simple Homemade Marinade Recipes

Return from Simple Homemade Marinade Recipes AKA "Dump" Recipes to the homepage of Favorite Freezer Foods.

See More Great Recipes on Pinterest!