Description
A rich and creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce made with butter, fresh garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and a touch of heat. This versatile sauce is ideal for enhancing pasta, vegetables, chicken, or seafood dishes with a luxurious cheesy garlic flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter completely. Keep a close eye on it to prevent it from browning or burning.
- Add the Garlic: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Cook the garlic gently for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and slightly softened, but not browned.
- Add the Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth). Stir well to combine.
- Stir in the Heavy Cream: Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.
- Incorporate the Parmesan Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, a little at a time, stirring constantly until completely melted and smooth.
- Season with Spices: Add the dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Simmer Gently: Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Adjust Consistency (if needed): If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few more minutes to reduce.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Give the sauce a final taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta, vegetables, chicken, or seafood. Sprinkle with extra grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor and avoid browning it to keep the sauce smooth and tasty.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
- Adjust the thickness by varying the amount of broth or cream according to your preference.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat to the sauce.
- Serve immediately as the sauce thickens and sets upon cooling.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat over low heat, adding broth or cream if necessary.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Sauce, creamy garlic sauce, Italian sauce, pasta sauce, homemade Parmesan sauce
