One Pot Garlic Parmesan Sauce

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If there were ever a sauce that could win over everyone at the table, it’s this one pot garlic parmesan sauce. It’s outrageously creamy, boldly garlicky, and melts beautifully over everything from pasta and chicken to roasted vegetables and rice. You only need one pan and a few pantry staples to transform an ordinary dinner into something luscious and restaurant-worthy.

The best part? This sauce is incredibly easy to whip up on a busy night. No complicated steps or fancy ingredients—just warm comfort in a skillet. Once you try this silky, cheesy creation, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Garlic Parmesan Sauce

This recipe doesn’t just save you time, it delivers deep flavor with minimal effort. The garlic gently sautés in butter before being whisked into a creamy parmesan blend that hugs every bite. Whether you’re serving picky eaters or impressing guests, it hits all the right notes: creamy, garlicky, cheesy, and satisfying.

Plus, the one-pot cleanup is a dream.

Can I Use Pre-Minced Garlic or Pre-Grated Parmesan?

Absolutely, you can use shortcuts like pre-minced garlic or packaged shredded parmesan if you’re in a rush. Just know that freshly minced garlic and freshly grated cheese offer a richer flavor and a smoother texture. If time allows, the extra few minutes of prep are worth the payoff.

Ingredients for the One Pot Garlic Parmesan Sauce

This sauce uses common kitchen ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in delivering its flavor and creaminess. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Butter: The base for sautéing the garlic and building rich flavor.
• Garlic: Use fresh cloves if possible—they add a deep, pungent aroma and savory kick.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce into that luscious, silky texture.
• Chicken broth: Adds depth and enhances the umami without making it too heavy.
• Heavy cream: Essential for creating that ultra-creamy consistency.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated brings the best melt and bold salty flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Just enough to balance and season everything to perfection.
• Parsley (optional): For a fresh, herby finish.

How To Make the One Pot Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Don’t let it brown.

Step 2: Whisk in the Flour

Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic mixture. Whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a smooth roux. This thickens the sauce later and keeps it silky.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Cream

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble slightly. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated. The sauce should now be thick, creamy, and velvety.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. If using parsley, stir it in just before serving. Pour over your favorite dish or serve immediately.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Sauce

This one pot garlic parmesan sauce is incredibly versatile. It makes enough to generously coat a pound of pasta or about 4 servings of protein like chicken or shrimp. Pour it over roasted potatoes or spoon it onto steamed vegetables for a decadent upgrade.

To store leftovers, let the sauce cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently. If it thickens too much, add a splash of cream or broth to loosen it.

What to Serve With One Pot Garlic Parmesan Sauce?

Grilled Chicken Breasts

Juicy grilled chicken becomes a gourmet dish with this sauce poured over the top.

Roasted Broccoli or Cauliflower

Vegetables turn indulgent when drizzled with this creamy, cheesy sauce.

Pasta of Any Kind

Linguine, penne, fettuccine—this sauce loves them all.

Mashed Potatoes

Swap out traditional gravy for this garlic parmesan twist.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms pair beautifully with the garlic and cheese.

Crusty Bread

Use it like a dip for toasted sourdough or a baguette.

Baked Salmon

Drizzle over flaky salmon for a quick restaurant-style plate.

Creamy Polenta

Let the sauce melt into warm polenta for an ultra-comforting side.

Want More Sauce Ideas?

If you love this creamy garlic parmesan combination, check out these other rich and savory sauces:

• Creamy Mushroom Sauce for Steak if you want depth and umami.
• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a heartier pasta dish.
• Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce when you want heat and richness.
• Easy Chicken with Zucchini Corn Garlic Sauce for a garden-fresh take.
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli when you’re craving indulgence.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest sauce board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how you used it! Did you spoon it over steak? Pour it over ravioli? Swirl it into risotto?

I love seeing the creative ways you all make this recipe your own. Don’t hesitate to ask questions below—we’re all here to cook better together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and recipes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find new weeknight inspirations.

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