Quick Kitchen Cream Sauce

This creamy quick kitchen sauce is a weeknight lifesaver in my house Whenever I need to elevate simple pasta or want a luscious dip for roasted veggies this one pan recipe never lets me down

One snowy evening I whipped this up using pantry basics and now it is our go to comfort sauce My kids actually cheer when they smell the garlic melting in butter

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: Brings richness and helps saute the garlic Before buying check for a sweet clean smell in your butter for best flavor
• Fresh garlic: Four cloves finely chopped for real aromatic depth Choose firm bright cloves without green shoots for the best punch
• Italian seasoning blend: A complete herb mix for classic flavor Opt for a blend that includes oregano basil and thyme for balance
• All purpose flour: Thickens the sauce for a satiny texture Try unbleached flour for a cleaner taste
• Vegetable broth: Provides savory backbone A good boxed broth should smell fresh and not overly salty
• Heavy cream: Delivers luxurious body and mouthfeel The fresher the cream the more luscious your sauce will be
• Freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and salt Always opt for a wedge to grate yourself for max flavor
• Fresh parsley: Offers color and brightness Choose leaves that are vibrant and unwilted
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors A good flaky salt makes things pop
• Fresh cracked black pepper: Brings subtle heat and complexity Grind just before adding for best aroma

Step by Step Instructions

Melt the Butter:

Add the unsalted butter to a large saute pan and let it melt gently over medium heat Stir occasionally until fully melted and sizzling but not browned This is the foundation of your sauce

Saute the Garlic:

Sprinkle in the minced garlic and stir constantly for about one minute As soon as the garlic is fragrant and you begin to smell that nutty aroma remove from direct heat to avoid burning

Add Seasonings and Flour:

Sprinkle in your Italian seasoning and all purpose flour Whisk constantly for another minute until it forms a pale golden paste This step removes any raw flour taste and infuses the herbs

Slowly Add Broth:

Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while whisking vigorously This prevents lumps and helps the sauce become velvety Let it simmer for two to three minutes until it starts to thicken

Blend in Cream and Cheese:

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream followed by the shredded Parmesan Whisk until both are fully incorporated and the cheese has melted smoothly Take your time to let everything blend into a glossy sauce

Season and Finish:

Taste and add kosher salt and freshly ground pepper as needed Toss in chopped parsley right at the end for fresh color and flavor

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The Parmesan is my favorite part It turns a simple sauce into a true treat I remember my youngest licking the whisk when I first let her try making this with me These moments make quick dinners special

Storage Tips

Store leftover sauce in a glass jar or airtight container in the fridge It will thicken as it cools so reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to loosen it Heat over low stirring often to restore its silky texture

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of heavy cream use half and half or whole milk for a lighter texture For a vegan version swap the butter for olive oil use plant based cream and vegan Parmesan The sauce will still be satisfyingly creamy

Serving Suggestions

This sauce shines tossed with hot pasta but is just as good over roasted potatoes drizzled on grilled chicken or as a warm dip for crusty bread I also like it over steamed broccoli for a quick veggie side

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Cultural Context

Cream sauces like this have roots in classic Italian and French kitchens but this recipe is all about home comfort It captures the spirit of alfredo but with more flexibility for everyday cooks

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. Whole milk adds creaminess, though the texture may be a bit thinner compared to heavy cream.

→ What type of Parmesan cheese works best?

Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor and smoothest melt. Avoid pre-shredded varieties, as they may not blend as well.

→ Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat, whisking until smooth.

→ How can I adjust the thickness of the sauce?

If the sauce is too thick, add a little more broth or cream. For a thicker result, simmer gently to reduce the liquid, stirring often.

→ Is this sauce suitable for gluten-free diets?

Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative to keep the sauce gluten-free. Make sure to check other ingredients as well.