Rich Basil Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta, chicken, or vegetable dishes with this decadent Rich Basil Cream Sauce, a velvety blend of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Made with fresh basil leaves, heavy cream, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this creamy sauce features a perfectly balanced richness that clings beautifully to every bite. A touch of minced garlic and a light kick from optional red pepper flakes add layers of depth, while the quick 20-minute prep and cook time make it a breeze to whip up for busy weeknights or an elegant dinner party. Whether you're tossing it with pasta, drizzling it over grilled chicken, or serving it alongside roasted vegetables, this versatile basil cream sauce is sure to become a beloved staple.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups milk
- 0.5 cups heavy cream
- 0.5 cups fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 0.75 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 0.125 teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, or until fragrant (do not let it brown).
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a smooth, golden paste (roux).
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream and allow to heat through, about 2 minutes.
Add the chopped basil leaves and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and serve immediately over your favorite pasta, chicken, or vegetables. Garnish with additional fresh basil, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
288 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 23.3 g | 30% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.5 g | 72% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 69 mg | 23% | |
| Sodium | 549 mg | 24% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 9.0 g | 3% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.3 g | 1% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.6 g | ||
| Protein | 9.9 g | 20% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 285 mg | 22% | |
| Iron | 0.5 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 171 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
