Name: 5 Ingredient Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

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5 Ingredient Creamy Garlic Sauce A rich, velvety sauce that comes together in minutes with only five simple ingredients. I love how versatile it is — whether I pour it over pasta, drizzle it on roasted vegetables, or serve it as a warm, cheesy dip, it never fails to impress.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

In a medium saucepan, I melt the butter over medium heat.

I add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until it becomes fragrant and golden.

I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.

Once the cream is warmed through, I add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.

I season with salt and pepper to taste.

I serve it over pasta, roasted vegetables, or use it as a dip for bread and snacks.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 5 minutes

Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

I sometimes stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

For a richer flavor, I use roasted garlic instead of fresh minced garlic.

I swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano when I want a sharper, saltier taste.

I add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it gently over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently. If the sauce thickens too much, I add a splash of cream or milk to bring it back to its silky consistency.

FAQs

How can I make this sauce thicker?

I let it simmer a bit longer so some of the liquid reduces, or I add a little extra Parmesan cheese.

Can I make this sauce without cream?

Yes, I’ve substituted half-and-half or whole milk before, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Will this sauce work for pizza?

Absolutely! I spread it over pizza dough as a base before adding toppings — it’s delicious with chicken and spinach.

Can I freeze this creamy garlic sauce?

I don’t recommend freezing because dairy-based sauces can separate, but I prefer making it fresh since it only takes 10 minutes.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

I keep the heat on medium-low and avoid boiling the cream; gentle simmering keeps the sauce smooth.

Conclusion

This 5 ingredient creamy garlic sauce is my go-to when I want a quick, flavorful, and versatile addition to a meal. Its rich texture and bold garlic flavor make it perfect for pasta, vegetables, breads, and more. With minimal effort and maximum taste, it’s a recipe I keep coming back to.