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The Boat Shed Kitchen

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a silky, indulgent blend of butter, cream, garlic, and fresh Parmesan. It comes together in minutes and instantly upgrades pasta, chicken, veggies, or seafood. Comforting, versatile, and luxuriously creamy!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 240
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half and half for a lighter sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese refrigerated kind
  • Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste
  • Fresh grated nutmeg optional, to taste

Method
 

  1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low to medium heat.
  2. Add cream and bring to a light simmer, stirring often for 5 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  4. Gradually add Parmesan in batches, whisking constantly until smooth and melted.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg to taste.
  6. If the sauce thickens too much, thin with a splash of extra cream or reserved pasta water.
  7. See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/creamy-garlic-parmesan-sauce/

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan (not the shelf-stable powder) for the creamiest result.
  • Don’t let the sauce boil—gentle simmering keeps it smooth and velvety.
  • This sauce thickens as it cools, so serve it immediately or keep it warm on low heat.