Quick Kitchen Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sauce is a fantastic blend of rich butter, fresh garlic, and Parmesan cheese, all brought together with a smooth, creamy texture. It’s simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can elevate any pasta or vegetable dish. Its balanced seasoning and silky consistency make it a versatile staple for quick weeknight dinners or elegant meals.

Ingredients

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning blend
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups vegetable broth
¾ cup heavy cream
8 oz freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Kosher salt, to taste
Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

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

Directions

1. Melt butter in a large sauté pan over medium-low heat.
2. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
3. Sprinkle flour into the pan and whisk until fully combined. Cook for another minute.
4. Slowly pour in vegetable broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Simmer gently for 2 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
6. Pour in heavy cream, add Parmesan cheese and parsley. Whisk until smooth.
7. Cook on low heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Servings and timing

• Serves: 8
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a richer flavor.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives to make it vegan.
• Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and nutrition.
• Add lemon zest or a splash of white wine for brightness.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Avoid boiling when reheating to preserve the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and refrigerate, then reheat gently before serving.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or coconut cream can be used for lighter or dairy-free versions.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

No, it contains flour but can be adapted using gluten-free flour.

How do I prevent lumps?

Whisk continuously while adding broth and ensure the flour is fully incorporated before adding liquid.

Can I freeze this sauce?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change.

How thick should the sauce be?

It should coat the back of a spoon but remain pourable.

Can I add other herbs?

Yes, basil, thyme, or oregano work well.

How much Parmesan should I use?

8 oz provides a rich cheesy flavor, but you can adjust to taste.

Can I make this sauce spicy?

Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to taste.

What dishes go well with this sauce?

Perfect for pasta, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or fish.

Conclusion

Quick Kitchen Sauce is a simple yet indulgent way to add creaminess and flavor to your meals. With fresh garlic, aromatic herbs, and melted Parmesan, it’s a versatile and satisfying sauce that comes together in minutes—ideal for elevating everyday dishes with minimal effort.

Quick Kitchen Sauce

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Sautéing, Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

Creamy, garlicky sauce made with butter, garlic, Parmesan, and herbs. Ready in minutes, perfect for elevating pasta, vegetables, and more with rich, smooth flavor.

---

Ingredients

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced

2 teaspoons Italian seasoning blend

4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups vegetable broth

¾ cup heavy cream

8 oz freshly shredded Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

Kosher salt, to taste

Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large sauté pan over medium-low heat.
2. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
3. Sprinkle flour into the pan and whisk until fully combined. Cook for another minute.
4. Slowly pour in vegetable broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Simmer gently for 2 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
6. Pour in heavy cream, add Parmesan cheese and parsley. Whisk until smooth.
7. Cook on low heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce reaches desired consistency.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

---

Notes

Substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for richer flavor.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives to make it vegan.

Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and nutrition.

Add lemon zest or a splash of white wine for brightness.

---

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8 cup
• Calories: 140
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 35mg