Garlic cream sauce is a versatile and delicious addition to pasta, chicken, seafood, and vegetables. This rich and creamy sauce brings bold garlic flavor balanced with butter, cream, and cheese. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal, this sauce is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich & Creamy – Made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan for a luscious texture.
- Easy to Make – Ready in just 15 minutes with a few simple ingredients.
- Versatile – Pairs well with pasta, steak, chicken, seafood, and even roasted vegetables.
- Customizable – Adjust the thickness, add herbs, or spice it up with red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (for lemon garlic cream sauce variation)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 2: Add the Cream
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes to slightly thicken.
Step 3: Stir in the Parmesan
Lower the heat and gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted and incorporated.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Add salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning (if using), and red pepper flakes if you want a bit of spice. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately over pasta, chicken, or vegetables.
How to Make Garlic Cream Sauce for Pasta
To make this sauce perfect for pasta, cook your pasta separately and reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water. Add it to the garlic cream sauce before tossing it with the pasta to help the sauce adhere better.
How to Make Garlic Cream Sauce for Steak
For a steakhouse-quality sauce, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard for extra depth. Drizzle it over grilled steak for a rich, creamy finish.
How to Make Garlic Cream Sauce for Chicken
This sauce pairs beautifully with chicken breasts or thighs. Try marinating the chicken in lemon and garlic before cooking, then serve with the creamy sauce for a well-rounded meal.
How to Make Pizza Garlic Cream Sauce
For a creamy alternative to tomato sauce, spread this garlic cream sauce over pizza dough before adding toppings like mushrooms, spinach, or grilled chicken.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce
Increase the Parmesan to 3/4 cup and stir in extra garlic for a stronger, cheesier flavor. This version is great for dipping breadsticks or drizzling over roasted vegetables.
How to Make Shrimp and Scallops in Garlic Cream Sauce
Sauté shrimp and scallops in butter and garlic before adding the cream. Simmer everything together for a seafood dish that’s restaurant-quality at home.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce
For a bright, zesty variation, add 2 tbsp of fresh lemon juice and a pinch of lemon zest. This version pairs well with fish or grilled vegetables.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Garlic – Fresh minced garlic provides the best flavor.
- Don’t Overheat – Keep the heat medium to low to prevent the cream from separating.
- Adjust Thickness – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk, broth, or reserved pasta water.
- Make it Spicy – Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Balance with Acidity – A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors.
Variations
- Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce – Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy twist.
- Mushroom Garlic Cream Sauce – Sauté mushrooms with the garlic for added depth.
- Bacon Garlic Cream Sauce – Stir in crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
- Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce – Increase the Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy, thicker sauce.
- Pizza Garlic Cream Sauce – Use this as a white pizza sauce for a creamy, garlicky alternative to tomato sauce.
- Garlic Cream Sauce for Steak – Drizzle over grilled steak for a restaurant-quality dish.
- Garlic Cream Sauce for Chicken – Serve over grilled or baked chicken breasts for a rich, creamy meal.
- Garlic Cream Sauce for Shrimp – Toss cooked shrimp into the sauce for a decadent seafood meal.
- Mediterranean Garlic Cream Sauce – Add Mediterranean spices like oregano, basil, and a splash of olive oil for a Mediterranean twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make garlic cream sauce?
It’s simple! Sauté garlic in butter, add cream, stir in Parmesan, season, and simmer until thickened.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. You can thicken it with a little flour or cornstarch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat.
Can I freeze garlic cream sauce?
Freezing is not recommended as the dairy may separate upon reheating.
How many calories are in garlic cream sauce?
Calories vary based on ingredients, but a standard serving is around 100-150 calories per ¼ cup.
How do I make Mediterranean garlic cream sauce?
Add Mediterranean spices like oregano, basil, and a splash of olive oil for a Mediterranean twist.
What can I use garlic cream sauce for?
This sauce is great for pasta, chicken, steak, seafood, and even dipping bread!
This easy garlic cream sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves rich and comforting flavors. Try it tonight and elevate your meals with homemade creamy goodness!
🔥 What do you like to serve your garlic cream sauce with? Let us know in the comments!
