If you’re looking for a versatile and delicious sauce to elevate your dishes, look no further than this creamy garlic sauce recipe. Simple to prepare with just a few ingredients, this sauce can transform an ordinary meal into a flavorful culinary experience. Its rich, smooth taste and bold garlic notes make it a winning accompaniment to a variety of dishes, including pasta, chicken, seafood, or even vegetables.
To master this heavenly sauce, you’ll need a good quality heavy cream, butter, fresh garlic, and some basic kitchen tools. Follow the straightforward steps below, and you’ll have a delightful sauce that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to understand the importance of using fresh and high-quality ingredients. The secret to achieving the perfect creamy garlic sauce lies in the perfect harmony between flavors and textures. So, invest in some good quality cream, fresh garlic cloves, and real butter. With these elements, your sauce will surely make your dishes stand out.
Ingredients and Nutrition Facts
Broad Ingredients
To prepare a delicious and creamy garlic sauce, you will need the following key ingredients:
Fresh garlic cloves
Butter
Heavy cream or half and half
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley
Salt and pepper
You may also choose to include additional ingredients such as:
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder
Milk or all-purpose flour (to thicken)
Black pepper
Minced garlic
Basil
This versatile garlic cream sauce can be served with a variety of dishes such as pasta, chicken, shrimp, potatoes, and vegetables.
Nutrition Breakdown
Here is a brief overview of the nutritional breakdown of a creamy garlic sauce based on a recipe that makes 4 servings. Keep in mind that these values may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use and the quantity of each.
Nutrient
Amount per serving
Calories
300
Total Fat
25g
Saturated Fat
15g
Cholesterol
80mg
Sodium
350mg
Total Carbohydrate
10g
Dietary Fiber
0.5g
Sugars
3g
Protein
7g
This garlic sauce is relatively high in fat, specifically saturated fat, and cholesterol. The majority of the calories in the sauce come from the fat content. However, it does offer some nutritional benefits such as a good amount of calcium, vitamin A, and a small amount of vitamin C, iron, and potassium.
For a healthier version of the sauce, you can substitute heavy cream with a lower-fat milk or use a roux (a mixture of flour and butter) to thicken the sauce. To further improve the nutritional value, consider serving the creamy garlic sauce with whole-grain pasta or over a bed of steamed vegetables like cauliflower and zucchini.
Remember that the Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet, so your needs may vary depending on your daily caloric intake.
Cooking and Storage
Preparation Method
To prepare a delicious creamy garlic sauce, begin by heating a saucepan or skillet over medium heat. Add your preferred fat or oil, such as butter or olive oil, and gently cook the garlic until it becomes aromatic and slightly golden. If you want to enhance the garlic flavor, use a microplane to grate the fresh garlic cloves directly into the pan for an even and fragrant result.
For a smooth and rich sauce, add light cream or whipping cream to the pan, stirring to fully incorporate the garlic. To create a lighter pasta sauce, feel free to replace some of the cream with white wine or chicken broth. Add seasonings such as thyme, rosemary, cayenne, or red pepper flakes to give your sauce a unique and personalized flavor. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning.
Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat until it has thickened to your desired consistency. This will create the perfect base for a homemade Alfredo sauce. To finish, stir in shredded parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and velvety.
Feel free to alter the ingredients or seasoning according to your taste preferences or calorie needs. If you have any dietary restrictions, consult a doctor or registered dietitian. This creamy garlic sauce can be used as a dipping sauce, drizzled over vegetables, or mixed with fettuccine for a delicious pasta dish. The number of servings will vary based on how you plan to use the sauce.
Instructions for Storage
When it comes to storing your creamy garlic sauce, tightly seal any leftovers in an airtight container to preserve its flavor and freshness. Keep the sauce in the refrigerator where it can last up to 4 days. If your sauce contains mashed potatoes, the storage life may be shorter, so it’s best to consume it within 1-2 days.
If you need a longer storage time, consider freezing the sauce. Pour the cooled sauce into a zip-top freezer bag or appropriate freezer container. Remember to leave enough headspace for expansion. Label the container with the date and content. The sauce can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, transfer the container to the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
When you’re ready to reheat and serve, warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of cream or milk to help loosen the sauce and regain its original consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make a garlic cream sauce using milk?
To make a garlic cream sauce using milk, start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk, allowing it to thicken as it heats. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional desired spices, then simmer gently for a few minutes to let the flavors meld. If a thicker consistency is desired, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or flour in a little milk and whisk it in the sauce.
What is a good substitute for cream in a creamy garlic sauce?
A good substitute for cream in a creamy garlic sauce can be a combination of milk and butter, or Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free option, use unsweetened almond milk mixed with a bit of silken tofu to achieve a creamy consistency. Another option is a cashew cream, made by blending soaked cashews with water.
What is the best recipe for creamy garlic pasta sauce?
The best recipe for a creamy garlic pasta sauce is one that incorporates the flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese to create a rich and savory sauce that pairs well with a variety of pasta dishes. Start by sautéing fresh minced garlic in butter until fragrant. Slowly whisk in cream, milk, or a substitute, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add grated Parmesan cheese and seasoning, such as salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Simmer gently until heated through and slightly thickened. Toss with cooked pasta and garnish with fresh parsley.
How can I prepare a creamy garlic sauce for pizza?
To prepare a creamy garlic sauce for pizza, use the same basic recipe as for pasta sauce, but with a slightly thicker consistency. Melt butter in a saucepan and cook minced garlic until fragrant. Whisk in cream or a substitute, grated Parmesan cheese, and desired seasonings. Cook until thick enough to spread on pizza dough without running off the edges. Use this sauce as a base for toppings such as cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, and spinach or arugula.
What is the process to make a no-flour garlic cream sauce?
To make a no-flour garlic cream sauce, consider using alternatives like cornstarch or arrowroot for thickening, or rely on reducing the sauce through simmering to achieve the desired thickness. Mix your preferred thickener with a small amount of water or milk before whisking it into your sauce to avoid clumps. Cook until the sauce reaches the desired consistency, then add seasoning and serve.
How can I create a creamy garlic butter sauce for seafood?
To create a creamy garlic butter sauce for seafood, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat before adding minced garlic and cooking until fragrant. Add 1/4 cup of white wine and simmer to reduce by half. Gradually whisk in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, and add salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for seasoning. Cook until the sauce has thickened slightly. Drizzle the sauce over cooked seafood, such as shrimp, scallops, or fish, or serve as a dipping sauce.
