Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

5 Minute Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 30 reviews

This quick and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Sauce is perfect for elevating your pasta dishes or adding a delicious garlicky creaminess to homemade pizza. Made with butter, fresh garlic, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream, this sauce is rich, creamy, and ready in just 15 minutes – ideal for busy weeknights.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings (about 2.5–3 cups sauce)

Ingredients

Sauce Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 4 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 8 oz. shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Fresh cracked pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat Butter and Garlic: Heat butter in a large sauté pan over medium low heat until melted and sizzling slightly. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning along with a couple pinches of salt and pepper, cooking while stirring frequently for about 1 minute to release the flavors.
  2. Add Flour: Stir in the flour and whisk until fully combined. Continue to cook and stir for another minute to cook off the raw flour taste and form a roux.
  3. Incorporate Broth: Turn the heat to low and gradually pour in the vegetable broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Once combined, increase heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  4. Simmer to Thicken: Let the sauce gently simmer on medium to medium-low heat for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken into a creamy texture.
  5. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, shredded Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Whisk continuously until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Finish Cooking and Season: Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Serve: Use immediately with your favorite pasta or as a flavorful base for homemade pizza.

Notes

  • Prepare all ingredients in advance (mise en place) for smooth cooking since this sauce cooks quickly and can burn if unattended.
  • Season gradually and taste frequently to avoid over-salting; the simple ingredients rely heavily on balanced seasoning for the best flavor.
  • The sauce thickens rapidly as it cools; if it becomes too thick, thin it out with a bit more vegetable broth, cream, or reserved pasta water when tossing with pasta.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian