Every home cook needs a go-to sauce recipe—one that’s fast, delicious, and adaptable to just about anything. This Quick Kitchen Sauce is exactly that. Made in under 20 minutes with pantry staples like butter, garlic, broth, and Parmesan, it delivers a creamy, rich flavor that complements everything from pasta and rice to roasted vegetables and grilled chicken.
Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special meals, this sauce comes together effortlessly and adds a gourmet touch without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a comfort-filled topping for your favorite carbs or a luscious drizzle over steamed greens, this sauce is your new secret weapon.
Why You’ll Love This Quick Kitchen Sauce
- Fast and foolproof: From start to finish in under 20 minutes.
- Incredibly versatile: Pairs well with pasta, meat, vegetables, and more.
- Rich and creamy: Thanks to Parmesan and a touch of cream.
- Easily customizable: Spice it up, make it vegan, or add extras to suit your mood.
- Ideal for every season: Light enough for summer, cozy enough for winter.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to whip up this creamy, garlic-infused delight:
- 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: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a richer flavor than pre-packaged cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Melt the butter in a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle in a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Step 2: Make a Roux
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the butter and garlic mixture. Whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux. This step thickens your sauce and builds a rich, smooth texture.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while continuing to whisk. This prevents lumps and creates a silky consistency. Let the sauce simmer for about 2 minutes until it starts to thicken.
Step 4: Creamy Additions
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Continue whisking gently until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. If it’s too thick, thin it with a splash of extra broth or cream. Want a touch more spice? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Ways to Use This Quick Kitchen Sauce
This sauce isn’t just for pasta—though it’s divine on fettuccine or penne. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- Drizzled over roasted or steamed vegetables
- Spoon over grilled chicken or shrimp
- Use as a white pizza base
- Add to rice or risotto for extra richness
- Serve with baked potatoes or mashed cauliflower
Tips for Success
- Use low heat for dairy: Cream and cheese can separate if boiled, so keep the heat low once added.
- Whisk constantly: This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth finish.
- Make it ahead: This sauce keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days—just reheat gently.
Variations and Customizations
This basic sauce is a blank canvas. Try these easy tweaks:
- Make it spicy: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- Go vegan: Use plant-based butter, broth, cream, and cheese.
- Add mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms with garlic for an earthy twist.
- Boost with lemon: Stir in a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Storage & Reheating
Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm slowly in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in a splash of cream or broth to refresh the texture.
Freeze? This sauce is best fresh, as dairy can separate when frozen, but it can be frozen in a pinch for up to 1 month.
Final Thoughts
This Quick Kitchen Sauce is more than just a fast fix—it’s a flavor builder, a meal stretcher, and a kitchen essential. Whether you need to elevate a plain bowl of pasta or add depth to your veggies, this creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce is your answer. Keep the ingredients on hand and let this recipe become your weeknight MVP.
Quick Kitchen Sauce
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
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Melt the butter in a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle in a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Step 2: Make a Roux
- Sprinkle the flour evenly over the butter and garlic mixture. Whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux. This step thickens your sauce and builds a rich, smooth texture.
Step 3: Add the Broth
- Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while continuing to whisk. This prevents lumps and creates a silky consistency. Let the sauce simmer for about 2 minutes until it starts to thicken.
Step 4: Creamy Additions
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Continue whisking gently until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
- Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. If it’s too thick, thin it with a splash of extra broth or cream. Want a touch more spice? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
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