Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Melt Butter: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, ensuring it doesn’t brown.
- Sauté Garlic and Seasoning: Add the finely minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the melted butter. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Flour: Whisk in the flour to create a roux paste, mixing thoroughly to combine with the butter and seasonings.
- Incorporate Broth: Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth consistency.
- Simmer and Thicken: Bring the sauce to a low simmer over medium heat and let it cook for approximately 2 minutes or until it thickens to a creamy coating consistency.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue whisking and gently heat until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season to Taste: Add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as preferred.
- Serve: Use immediately over pasta, drizzle on pizza, or serve as a warm dipping sauce for breads and appetizers.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor and avoid burning it to prevent bitterness.
- Vegetarian option: use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Make sure to whisk continuously when adding flour and broth to prevent lumps.
- Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
- This sauce thickens as it cools; add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to thin it out if necessary.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
