Creamy Garlic Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy garlic sauce is incredibly versatile and easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The garlic provides a punch of flavor, while the cream creates a smooth and luxurious texture. Whether served over pasta, drizzled on roasted vegetables, or used as a dipping sauce for bread or fries, this creamy garlic sauce adds a layer of richness to any meal. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it a go-to sauce for busy nights or when you want to impress guests.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Once the cream is simmering, reduce the heat and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes smooth.

6. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using) to taste.

7. Continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

8. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Total time: 10-12 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Sauce: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring some heat to the sauce.

• Lemon Garlic Sauce: Stir in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice or lemon zest for a fresh, tangy twist.

• Herb Garlic Sauce: Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor.

• Vegan Garlic Sauce: Use coconut cream or almond milk in place of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover garlic sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the sauce gently over low heat on the stove, stirring constantly. You may need to add a splash of cream or milk to restore the consistency if it thickens too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different kind of cream in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or almond milk, but the texture and richness may vary.

2. Can I make this sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it on the stove and adjust the consistency with a bit of cream or milk if needed.

3. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic gives the sauce its best flavor, you can use garlic powder if necessary. Use about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for a milder garlic taste.

4. Can I make this sauce without Parmesan cheese?

Yes, you can omit the Parmesan cheese, but it will reduce the creaminess and flavor depth. Consider using a dairy-free cheese substitute if you’re looking for a vegan alternative.

5. How can I make this garlic sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, allow it to simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (mix equal parts cornstarch and water) and stir it in slowly until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.

6. Can I use this sauce on pasta?

Absolutely! This creamy garlic sauce is perfect on pasta. Toss it with spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice for a delicious and comforting meal.

7. Can I add vegetables to this sauce?

Yes! You can sauté mushrooms, spinach, or any other vegetables you prefer and stir them into the sauce for added flavor and texture.

8. How spicy is this garlic sauce?

This recipe as written is mild, but you can add as much heat as you like by incorporating red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce.

9. Can I use this sauce as a dip?

Yes, this creamy garlic sauce makes a fantastic dip for breadsticks, fries, roasted vegetables, or even chicken wings.

10. How long does this garlic sauce last in the fridge?

This garlic sauce can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s stored in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delicious and versatile addition to any meal, transforming ordinary dishes into something extraordinary with its rich texture and bold flavor. Whether used on pasta, as a dip, or drizzled over roasted vegetables, this sauce is a must-have in your culinary repertoire. Easy to make with minimal ingredients, it’s a perfect go-to sauce when you want something quick and indulgent.