Description
This Lemon Cream Sauce is a rich, tangy, and velvety sauce that enhances pasta, chicken, seafood, and vegetables. Made with fresh lemon juice, cream, and Parmesan, it delivers a perfect balance of citrusy brightness and creamy decadence.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic – In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add Cream and Lemon – Pour in heavy cream and stir in fresh lemon juice and zest.
- Simmer – Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Incorporate Cheese – Stir in grated Parmesan until fully melted and smooth.
- Season – Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve – Remove from heat and drizzle over pasta, chicken, seafood, or vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Lighter Option – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Extra Cheesy – Add more Parmesan or mix in Pecorino Romano.
- Garlic Lovers – Double the garlic for an extra punch.
- Herb Infusion – Stir in fresh basil or thyme for added depth.
- Spicy Kick – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce, Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, French-Inspired
Keywords: Lemon cream sauce, creamy pasta sauce, citrus butter sauce, easy garlic sauce, homemade pasta sauce