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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian