Garlic-Parmesan sauce is a creamy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile condiment that enhances everything from pasta to chicken wings. Whether you’re looking to make a dipping sauce, a pasta base, or a topping for roasted veggies, this homemade Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe will be your new go-to.
Rich, buttery, and packed with garlic and Parmesan cheese, this sauce is super easy to make. Plus, with a few simple ingredients, you can whip it up in under 15 minutes!
Garlic-Parmesan Sauce Ingredients
The key to a delicious Garlic-Parmesan sauce is using high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Butter – The base of the sauce, providing a rich, smooth texture.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but you can substitute garlic powder if needed.
- All-purpose flour – Helps to thicken the sauce.
- Heavy cream or half-and-half – Gives the sauce its creamy consistency.
- Chicken or vegetable broth – Enhances the overall taste with added depth.
- Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for the best taste.
- Salt and black pepper – For seasoning.
- Italian seasoning (optional) – Adds extra flavor.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – If you want a bit of heat.
How to Make Garlic-Parmesan Sauce
Making homemade Garlic-Parmesan sauce is simple and requires just a few steps. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to bubble.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle flour over the butter and garlic mixture, stirring thoroughly. Cook for about a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Step 4: Add the Liquids
Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until it slightly thickens.
Step 5: Stir in the Parmesan Cheese
Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely into the sauce.
Step 6: Season and Simmer
Add salt, black pepper, and any additional seasonings you like. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for another 3–5 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and serve immediately over pasta, chicken, or as a dipping sauce!
What to Do With Garlic-Parmesan Sauce?
This creamy sauce can be used in many ways! Here are some ideas:
- Pasta Sauce – Toss it with fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti.
- Chicken Wings – Use it as a dip or toss wings in the sauce.
- Pizza Base – Spread it on pizza instead of tomato sauce.
- Vegetables – Drizzle over roasted or steamed veggies.
- Garlic Bread Dip – Use it as a dip for breadsticks or garlic bread.
- Seafood – Pour over shrimp or grilled fish for a creamy seafood dish.
Can You Make Garlic-Parmesan Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare this sauce in advance and reheat it when needed. If making ahead, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
How to Store Garlic-Parmesan Sauce?
Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate when reheated.
Reheating: Warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a little milk or cream.
Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Use fresh garlic and Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Whisk continuously when adding the flour to prevent lumps.
- Adjust thickness by adding more broth to thin it out or letting it simmer longer to thicken.
- For an ultra-smooth texture, use an immersion blender to blend the sauce
Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Equipment
- 1 Saucepan
- 1 Wooden spoon or whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- 1 Knife and cutting board
- 1 Grater
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Melt Butter : Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook Garlic : Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make Roux : Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Add Liquids : Slowly add heavy cream and broth, whisking continuously.
- Melt Cheese : Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season and Simmer : Add salt, pepper, and seasonings. Simmer for 3–5 minutes.
- Serve : Remove from heat and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh garlic and Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Whisk continuously when adding the flour to prevent lumps.
- Adjust thickness by adding more broth to thin it out or letting it simmer longer to thicken.
- For a smoother sauce, blend it with an immersion blender.
This homemade Garlic-Parmesan sauce is easy, delicious, and perfect for enhancing your favorite meals, Try it today and let us know how you like it.