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Garlic Parmesan Cheese Sauce Recipe

4.9 from 99 reviews

A rich and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Cheese Sauce featuring roasted garlic, fresh herbs, and creamy parmesan, perfect for drizzling over pasta, vegetables, or grilled meats. The sauce combines the deep, mellow taste of roasted garlic with fresh rosemary and thyme, finished with a smooth, cheesy texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Garlic and Seasonings

  • 1 bulb garlic
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, minced (or ½ teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced (or ½ teaspoon dried)
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, depending on spice preference
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Dairy and Fats

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Roast Garlic: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Slice the garlic bulb in half crosswise, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap tightly in foil. Roast for 45 minutes until cloves are soft and golden.
  2. Prepare Garlic Paste: Once cooled, squeeze the roasted garlic cloves onto a cutting board and mash roughly with the side of a knife into a paste.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Heat a skillet or saucepan on medium-high heat, melt the butter, then add the mashed garlic, rosemary, thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir constantly until the mixture becomes bubbly and fragrant.
  4. Add Cream: Slowly stir in the heavy cream about ¼ cup at a time, ensuring each addition is incorporated before adding more. Continue cooking and stirring for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and bubbles.
  5. Incorporate Parmesan: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and simmer the sauce for another minute until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Roasted garlic can be prepared one or two days ahead for convenience.
  • Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control the spiciness.
  • Use fresh herbs for best flavor; if using dried, reduce quantities as specified.
  • This sauce pairs well with pasta, steamed vegetables, grilled chicken, or as a dipping sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently.

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan sauce, roasted garlic sauce, creamy parmesan sauce, Italian sauce, garlic cheese sauce, easy sauce recipe