Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Large saucepan
- Whisk
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk until well combined.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
5. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the saucepan.
6. Whisk until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
Makes about 2 cups of sauce
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 45g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 9g
Sodium: 700mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but adjust the amount of added salt accordingly.
- Half-and-half or whole milk can be used instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less creamy.
- Grated Pecorino Romano cheese can be used instead of Parmesan cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or thyme to the sauce for extra flavor.
- Use this sauce as a base for a pasta dish by adding cooked pasta and your choice of protein and vegetables.
- Make a spicy version by adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Tips and tricks:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Whisk the sauce constantly while cooking to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
Storage instructions:
Leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the sauce over cooked pasta or as a dipping sauce for bread or vegetables.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Pairings:
This sauce pairs well with pasta, chicken, steak, seafood, and vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
Refrigerate leftover sauce promptly and discard any that has been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Food history:
Creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is a popular Italian-American sauce that is often served with pasta dishes.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, garlicky, cheesy, salty, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the sauce hot or warm as a topping or dipping sauce.
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Region: Italian