Description
A rich and flavorful scampi sauce made with butter, garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for pairing with pasta, shrimp, chicken, or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
Melt the Butter : In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Avoid browning it too much.
Sauté the Garlic : Add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but do not brown.
Add the Broth : Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
Incorporate the Lemon Juice
Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, blending well with the butter and garlic mixture.Add the Heavy Cream : Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Add the Parmesan : Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts completely and creates a smooth consistency.
Season to Taste : Add salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Finish with Parsley : Stir in the freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness.
Serve Immediately : best served warm over pasta, shrimp, chicken, or vegetables.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Adjust the lemon juice quantity to balance the acidity to your taste.
- For a spicier sauce, add more red pepper flakes.
- Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauces & Condiments
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: creamy scampi sauce, garlic butter sauce, seafood sauce, Parmesan sauce, lemon garlic cream sauce