Description
🍝 Indulge in the creamy richness of this Garlic Parmesan Sauce, packed with flavor and perfect for adding a touch of homemade goodness to your meals! 🧄
🧀 Quick, simple, and versatile, this recipe is a must-try to bring irresistible taste to your favorite dishes effortlessly! 🍽️
Ingredients
Butter (½ cup): The base of this sauce, butter provides a rich, creamy texture and a slightly nutty flavor when melted. Opt for unsalted butter to control the seasoning of the sauce.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic is key to achieving that robust, aromatic flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be used, but fresh garlic truly elevates the dish.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): This adds the luxurious creaminess that makes the sauce so indulgent. For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or whole milk.
Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): The star of the show, Parmesan cheese gives the sauce its signature cheesy flavor. For the best results, grate your own from a block of Parmesan.
Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick that balances the richness of the sauce.
Salt (to taste): Adjust the saltiness to your preference. Start with a small amount and add more as needed; Parmesan cheese is naturally salty.
Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of dried herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme adds a touch of Mediterranean flair.
Onion Powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances the savory depth of the sauce without overpowering the garlic.
Red Pepper Flakes (Optional, ¼ teaspoon): For those who like a bit of heat, red pepper flakes add a nice spicy undertone.
Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a fresh, tangy brightness that can lighten up the sauce.
Fresh Herbs (such as basil or parsley, 2 tablespoons, chopped): Stirred in at the end for an extra burst of freshness.
White Wine (¼ cup, optional): Deglaze the pan with white wine for a more complex flavor.
Instructions
1. Melt the butter. In a medium saucepan, slowly melt ½ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat, avoiding browning to preserve its flavor.
2. Sauté the garlic. Add 4 cloves of minced fresh garlic to the melted butter. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
3. Add the cream. Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring gently. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken slightly over 3-5 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Parmesan. Gradually add 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly until it fully melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Thin the sauce with a splash of milk or cream if it appears too thick.
5. Season the sauce. Stir in ½ teaspoon of black pepper, salt to taste, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and ½ teaspoon of onion powder. If desired, add ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or other optional ingredients to further enhance the flavor.
6. Simmer and stir. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, occasionally stirring to ensure the flavors meld and the sauce reaches the desired thickness. Adjust with additional cream or milk if needed.
7. Finish and serve. Remove the sauce from heat once it reaches the perfect consistency. Stir in any optional fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or basil, if using. Serve immediately over pasta, chicken, vegetables, or as a dip.
Notes
1. Perfect the texture of your Garlic Parmesan Sauce by constantly stirring, especially when adding the Parmesan cheese.
2. Use fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan to achieve the best flavor in your sauce.
3. Adjust the seasoning carefully as Parmesan is naturally salty, ensuring your sauce balances perfectly.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American