Name: Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 6 cloves garlic, grated or finely minced (about 1 tablespoon); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1½ cups half and half; ½ cup chicken stock (or vegetable stock or water); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe

Creamy Garlic Sauce is a luxurious, versatile sauce that brings bold flavor and silky texture to any dish. Made with just a few kitchen staples—like butter, garlic, flour, and half and half—this sauce is an easy go-to for elevating everything from pasta and chicken to vegetables and seafood. The key to its richness is the slow-cooked garlic, which infuses the sauce with deep, savory flavor without being overpowering. It’s thickened with a simple roux and finished with a splash of chicken stock and fresh parsley for balance and brightness.

Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a special meal, this creamy garlic sauce fits right in. It’s naturally comforting and can be adjusted in consistency and seasoning to suit your needs. Even better, it comes together quickly in one pan—making it a favorite for busy cooks who still want restaurant-quality results at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Big Garlic Flavor

Grated or finely minced garlic adds deep, bold flavor that makes this sauce stand out.

Creamy Texture

Half and half creates a smooth, rich consistency without being too heavy.

One-Pan Simplicity

Minimal ingredients and one pan make it fast and fuss-free.

Customizable

Use it on pasta, meat, veggies, or even as a pizza base or dipping sauce.

Elegant but Easy

Feels gourmet, but anyone can make it in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Unsalted butter
Garlic (grated or finely minced)

All-purpose flour
Half and half
Chicken stock (or vegetable stock or water)

Fresh parsley (minced)
Kosher salt
Fresh black pepper

Variations

Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and non-dairy cream or cashew milk.
Cheesy Twist: Stir in grated Parmesan or Asiago for an Alfredo-style sauce.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Herb Blend: Mix in thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for added depth.
Vegan Option: Use olive oil, non-dairy milk, and vegetable stock to keep it vegan-friendly.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the garlic and cook gently for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3

Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly to form a smooth paste (roux), cooking for about 1 minute.

Step 4

Gradually whisk in the half and half and chicken stock. Continue whisking to ensure there are no lumps.

Step 5

Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until it thickens to your desired consistency, about 3–5 minutes.

Step 6

Stir in the fresh parsley, then season to taste with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Grate garlic instead of chopping for an evenly smooth sauce.

Don’t rush the garlic—it should be gently cooked, not browned.
Whisk continuously while adding liquids to avoid lumps.
Adjust thickness with extra stock or half and half as needed.

Make ahead and store in the fridge for easy meal prep.

How to Serve

Serve this creamy garlic sauce over pasta, grilled chicken, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes. It also makes an excellent base for creamy soups or a dipping sauce for breadsticks and roasted potatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Not ideal, as dairy-based sauces can separate when frozen and reheated.

Reheating

Warm gently on the stove over low heat, whisking occasionally. Add a splash of milk or stock if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use milk instead of half and half?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a bit more flour for thickening.

2. What if I don’t have chicken stock?

Use vegetable stock or water, though stock adds more flavor.

3. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, it keeps well in the fridge and reheats nicely.

4. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook it on medium to low heat and stir constantly.

5. Can I add cheese?

Absolutely—Parmesan, mozzarella, or Gruyère are great additions.

6. What if my sauce is too thick?

Thin it with a bit of stock or half and half.

7. What dishes pair best with this sauce?

It’s excellent with pasta, chicken, shrimp, potatoes, and roasted vegetables.

8. How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch instead of regular flour.

9. Is this sauce spicy?

Not at all, but you can add spice with red pepper flakes if desired.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just scale all ingredients evenly and use a larger pan.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Sauce is a versatile and flavorful addition to countless meals. With just a few ingredients and a simple cooking method, you can whip up a restaurant-quality sauce that transforms everyday dishes into something special. Whether you spoon it over pasta, pair it with roasted veggies, or use it to dress up chicken or seafood, this creamy garlic sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.