Description
This creamy and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a rich blend of butter, garlic, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Perfect for drizzling over pasta, chicken, or steamed vegetables, this sauce combines the bold taste of garlic with the creamy texture of cheese and cream, enhanced with an optional hint of lemon and a touch of spice from red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 6 garlic cloves, minced (or more, depending on your love of garlic)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best flavor)
Optional Ingredients
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra garlic flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for balance)
Seasonings and Garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Mince the garlic cloves finely to release their aromatic oils, and grate the Parmesan cheese freshly for the best flavor and texture.
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and softened but not browned, to infuse the butter with garlic flavor.
- Add Cream and Simmer: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from scorching.
- Season the Sauce: Incorporate the garlic powder and crushed red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce continue to simmer for around 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Lower the heat and gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.
- Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the fresh lemon juice if desired to add a subtle brightness and balance to the richness of the sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the sauce from heat and spoon it over your choice of pasta, chicken, or vegetables. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a bit longer, but stir frequently to avoid burning.
- Adjust garlic quantity according to your taste preference; more garlic will intensify the flavor.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated for better melting and flavor.
- This sauce pairs wonderfully with fettuccine, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.
- To make it less rich, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be thinner.
