Creamy Parmesan White Sauce
This luscious Creamy Parmesan White Sauce is a versatile staple in any kitchen, perfect for enriching pasta dishes, lasagna, or as a creamy base for soups. With a blend of butter and margarine, this sauce is decadent yet easy to prepare. The addition of fragrant spices and parmesan cheese elevates it to a delightful culinary experience that will please any palate. Try it over your favorite vegetables, or drizzle it over baked pasta for a comforting family meal. This sauce is bound to become a go-to recipe for all your savory creations!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
1/2 cup (unsalted, melted)
margarine
1/4 cup (melted)
all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons (sifted)
milk
2 cups (whole or 2%)
cream
1 1/2 cups (heavy or half-and-half)
chicken broth
15 ounces (canned)
cornstarch
3 tablespoons (for thickening)
salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
rosemary
1/2 teaspoon (crushed)
nutmeg
1 dash (freshly grated or ground)
garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon
parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups (grated)
Instructions
1
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter and margarine together over medium heat until fully combined.
2
Gradually add the flour, whisking continuously to prevent lumps, and cook for about 1 minute until lightly golden.
3
Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
4
In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth and cornstarch until well combined, then add it to the saucepan.
5
Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring constantly to ensure even thickening.
6
Allow the sauce to boil for 1 minute, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.
7
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the salt, crushed rosemary, nutmeg, garlic powder, and grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
8
Serve immediately over your choice of pasta, vegetables, or use as a base for soups. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Parmesan White Sauce?
It is a rich and versatile sauce made from butter, margarine, flour, milk, cream, and parmesan cheese, seasoned with rosemary, nutmeg, and garlic.
Can I substitute the margarine for more butter?
Yes, you can use a total of 3/4 cup of butter if you prefer not to use margarine.
What type of milk works best for this white sauce?
Whole milk or 2% milk is recommended for the best balance of creaminess and consistency.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, the recipe specifies either heavy cream or half-and-half can be used depending on your preference for richness.
How do I prevent lumps from forming in the sauce?
To prevent lumps, gradually add the flour and whisk continuously, and slowly pour in the liquids while whisking.
Why is cornstarch used in addition to flour?
The cornstarch, mixed with chicken broth, provides extra thickening power and a smooth, glossy finish.
Is this parmesan sauce vegetarian?
As written, it contains chicken broth. To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
How long should I boil the sauce?
You should bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it boil for exactly 1 minute while stirring constantly.
Can I make this sauce gluten-free?
You can attempt to use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly from the original recipe.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
Can I freeze Creamy Parmesan White Sauce?
Freezing is not recommended as the dairy and fats may separate and become grainy upon thawing.
What is the best way to reheat the sauce?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, whisking in a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, you can sauté minced fresh garlic in the butter and margarine before adding the flour.
What other herbs can I use besides rosemary?
Thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning are excellent alternatives if you do not have rosemary.
Is this sauce suitable for lasagna?
Yes, it is a perfect substitute for traditional Béchamel sauce in lasagna recipes.
How do I make the sauce even thicker?
You can simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes or add an additional teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
Whisk in a small amount of additional milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I use pre-grated parmesan cheese from a green can?
For the best texture and flavor, it is highly recommended to use freshly grated or high-quality refrigerated grated parmesan.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead and keep it warm in a double boiler or reheat it slowly before serving.
Does this sauce work as a soup base?
Yes, it serves as an excellent creamy base for soups like broccoli cheddar or creamy chicken noodle.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Whole wheat flour can be used, but it will result in a darker color and a slightly nuttier, heartier flavor.
What vegetables pair best with this sauce?
It pairs beautifully with steamed broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, or roasted Brussels sprouts.
Can I add white wine to the recipe?
Yes, adding a splash of dry white wine after the flour has cooked can add a sophisticated depth of flavor.
What is the yield of this recipe?
Based on the liquid volume, this recipe yields approximately 5 to 6 cups of sauce.
Can I use a milk substitute like almond milk?
You can, but use an unsweetened, neutral-flavored milk substitute. Note that the sauce will be less rich.
Why must I stir the sauce constantly while it boils?
Stirring prevents the dairy from scorching on the bottom of the pan and ensures the starch thickens evenly.
Is the nutmeg necessary for the recipe?
Nutmeg is a traditional addition to white sauces that enhances the creaminess, but it can be omitted if you prefer.
Can I add cooked protein directly into the sauce?
Yes, cooked shredded chicken, shrimp, or sliced sausage can be stirred in at the very end.
What type of whisk is best for this?
A balloon whisk or a silicone-coated whisk is ideal for ensuring a smooth, lump-free texture in the saucepan.
Can I use this as a pizza sauce?
Absolutely, it makes a delicious base for a white pizza topped with spinach and chicken.