Name: 5 Minute Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, finely minced; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 4 tablespoons flour; 2 cups vegetable broth; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 8 oz. shredded Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh cracked pepper, to taste

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 6 reviews

If you’re craving a sauce that combines rich, creamy, and savory flavors with minimal fuss, then you’re going to love this 5 Minute Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe. It’s a luscious blend of garlic, butter, Parmesan, and a touch of cream that comes together quickly but tastes like it was simmered for hours. Whether drizzled over pasta, dolloped on pizza, or used as a dipping sauce, it’s an irresistible addition that’s bound to become a kitchen favorite you’ll turn to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six small bowls and measuring cups arranged on a white marbled surface. From top right, there is a clear glass measuring cup filled with white milk, next to it is a small white bowl with a square piece of yellow butter. Below, a medium white bowl holds pale yellow shredded cheese. To the left of the cheese is a clear glass bowl with chopped green herbs. Above that is another clear glass bowl with minced garlic, and above it is a clear glass bowl with mixed dried herbs. At the bottom left corner, there is another clear glass measuring cup filled with brown broth or stock. All items are neatly placed and clearly visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this sauce lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the sauce both luxurious and satisfying. From the garlicky aroma to the velvety Parmesan finish, every component plays a crucial role.

Butter (4 tablespoons): Creates a rich and smooth base, perfect for sautéing the garlic and bringing the sauce together.
Garlic, finely minced (4 cloves): Packs a punch of aromatic flavor that’s essential for that classic garlicky warmth.
Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons): Adds an herby complexity that balances the richness and amps up the depth.
Flour (4 tablespoons): Acts as the thickening agent, turning your sauce silky and luscious.
Vegetable broth (2 cups): Provides a savory, light liquid base that enhances the sauce without overpowering it.
Heavy cream (3/4 cup): Brings a velvety creaminess that rounds out the sharpness of the cheese.
Shredded Parmesan cheese (8 oz.): The star ingredient delivering nutty, salty flavor and melt-in-the-mouth texture.
Finely chopped parsley (1 tablespoon): Offers a fresh burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential seasonings that allow you to tailor the sauce perfectly to your taste.

How to Make 5 Minute Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Sauté the Garlic

Start by heating the butter in a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Once melted and just starting to sizzle, stir in the finely minced garlic and Italian seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook this fragrant mixture for about one minute, stirring frequently, so the garlic softens and infuses the butter without browning or burning.

Step 2: Add the Flour to Thicken

Next, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously until the mixture is well combined. Keep cooking and stirring for another minute; this step cooks out the raw flour taste and forms a roux that will be the thickening powerhouse of your sauce.

Step 3: Incorporate the Broth

Lower the heat to low and slowly pour in the vegetable broth while whisking constantly. This gradual addition helps create a smooth, lump-free sauce base. Once combined, bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it thicken for about two minutes — you’ll notice it becoming creamy and slightly more opaque.

Step 4: Stir in Cream, Parmesan, and Parsley

Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, shredded Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Whisk until the cheese fully melts and the sauce turns silky and creamy. Keep stirring frequently while it cooks to your desired thickness, but be careful not to overheat or boil it once the cheese has joined the mix.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Taste your sauce and adjust with salt and freshly cracked pepper as needed. This is your chance to customize the flavor so it perfectly suits your meal. Now it’s ready to spoon over pasta, spread on pizza crust, or even dip fresh bread for an indulgent treat.

How to Serve 5 Minute Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

A top view of a white pot filled with three visible layers: the bottom layer is a thick, light brown creamy sauce with small black pepper specks, the middle layer is a bright white cream poured unevenly on one side, and the top layer is a pile of shredded pale yellow cheese and a small heap of chopped green herbs placed next to the cream. A silver whisk is resting inside the pot, partially touching the sauce and cheese. The pot has white handles on each side, and it is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few more fresh herbs like basil or parsley take this sauce up a notch visually and flavor-wise. Toasted pine nuts or cracked black pepper can also add a lovely texture contrast that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

This sauce pairs wonderfully with simple sides like garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. Its richness provides a perfect counterpoint to light and fresh flavors, making meals feel both comforting and well balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the usual pasta by using this sauce as a base for white pizza topped with roasted chicken and spinach or drizzled over steamed asparagus and grilled shrimp. It’s so versatile that you can experiment with layering it in baked casseroles or swirling it into mashed potatoes for an extra cheesy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because it contains dairy, it’s best enjoyed fresh but storing it properly will still let you savor the flavors for a few extra meals.

Freezing

While this sauce is best fresh, you can freeze it in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight to preserve its texture as much as possible.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent separation. Adding a splash of broth or cream while reheating will help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency if it thickens too much or breaks slightly.

FAQs

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Absolutely! Chicken broth will add a richer, deeper flavor that pairs beautifully with the Parmesan and garlic, so feel free to substitute it if you prefer.

Is there a non-dairy alternative for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or cashew cream as substitutes, but the flavor profile will change slightly. These options still create a creamy texture but with a hint of their unique taste.

Can I make this sauce vegan?

To make it vegan, use plant-based butter, vegetable broth, and replace Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.

How thick should the sauce be?

The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. If it’s too thick, thin it out with a little extra broth or cream.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Make it a day ahead, refrigerate, and reheat gently when ready to use. This 5 Minute Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe is convenient and truly shines even as leftovers.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully satisfying about a sauce that feels gourmet but comes together in no time, and this 5 Minute Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe absolutely fits that bill. I encourage you to whip it up the next time you want to elevate your meal effortlessly—trust me, your taste buds will thank you. Enjoy the cozy comfort and endless versatility that this creamy, garlicky Parmesan delight brings to your table!

5 Minute Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make 5 Minute Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe