We’ve all fallen for the irresistible allure of Applebee’s Parmesan cream sauce, that velvety blend of cheesy goodness and rich flavors that elevates any meal. As food enthusiasts, we’re excited to share our take on this beloved restaurant favorite, recreating it right in your own kitchen with simple ingredients.
This copycat recipe captures the essence of what makes it a hit, offering a creamy delight that’s versatile for pasta, chicken, or veggies. Let’s dive into why it’s become a staple in our recipe collection—it’s quick, flavorful, and sure to impress at your next gathering.
Ingredients
In our exploration of this delectable Applebee’s Parmesan Cream Sauce recipe, we start with the essential building blocks that create its rich, creamy texture and irresistible cheesy flavor. Below, we’ve listed the ingredients in the order they are typically used, complete with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes to ensure accuracy and ease.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: We begin with this as the base fat for sautéing, melted to build a flavorful foundation.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Added next for aromatic depth; mince finely to release its pungent essence without overwhelming the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Incorporated after the aromatics; use full-fat for the creamiest consistency that forms the sauce’s luxurious body.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Stirred in towards the end; opt for freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and authentic taste that defines this signature sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Season to taste after combining; adjust based on the saltiness of your cheese for balanced flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Ground fresh and added last for a subtle kick; enhances the overall savoriness without dominating.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional): If using, add as a final touch for a pop of color and herbaceous note, though it’s not essential for the core recipe.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our Applebee’s Parmesan Cream Sauce with precision and ease, we need a few essential tools and equipment. These items help us achieve the sauce’s smooth texture and rich flavor without complications. Let’s outline them below for quick reference.
Essential Tools List
We recommend gathering the following tools before starting, as they directly support the steps from our ingredients section:
- Medium saucepan: This is crucial for melting butter and simmering the sauce to perfection; opt for a non-stick version to prevent sticking.
- Whisk: Ideal for blending ingredients smoothly and avoiding lumps in the creamy mixture; a silicone whisk works best for even coating.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success—use a set of dry and liquid measuring cups along with spoons for precise portions of cream, cheese, and seasonings.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring the sauce gently over heat, ensuring it doesn’t scorch while incorporating flavors like minced garlic and Parmesan.
- Heat-resistant spatula: Helpful for scraping the sides of the saucepan and serving the sauce; it’s a versatile tool for any creamy recipe like ours.
By having these tools ready, we ensure a seamless transition from measuring ingredients to cooking, making our Applebee’s Parmesan Cream Sauce recipe even more enjoyable and efficient.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create a velvety Applebee’s Parmesan cream sauce that boasts rich cheesy flavors and a smooth texture.
Prep
Before we start cooking, let’s prepare our ingredients to ensure everything flows seamlessly. Begin by measuring out the following:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Cut into small pieces for quick melting.
- 3 cloves garlic: Mince finely to release its aromatic essence.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Pour into a measuring cup at room temperature for even blending.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor—avoid pre-shredded for superior creaminess.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Measure precisely to enhance the sauce without overpowering it.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Grind fresh for a bold spicy note.
- Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley: Chop roughly if using, to add a vibrant green garnish.
This preparation takes about 5-10 minutes and sets the stage for a hassle-free cooking process.
Cook
With our ingredients prepped, we now cook the sauce in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently to achieve that luxurious creamy consistency.
- Melt the butter: Add the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the saucepan and let it melt completely for about 1-2 minutes until it begins to bubble slightly, infusing the pan with a rich base.
- Sauté the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to let it brown, as this could make the sauce bitter.
- Add the heavy cream: Pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream and whisk vigorously to combine with the butter and garlic, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step creates the sauce’s silky foundation.
- Incorporate the Parmesan: Gradually sprinkle in the 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon until fully melted and smooth. The cheese will thicken the sauce, giving it that irresistible cheesy pull.
- Season to taste: Add the ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper, then taste and adjust as needed. If desired, mix in the chopped fresh parsley for a fresh herbaceous lift.
- Simmer and thicken: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your preferred thickness. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon, signaling it’s ready to enhance your favorite dishes like pasta or chicken.
This cooking process takes approximately 10-15 minutes total, resulting in a sauce that’s decadently creamy and full of flavor.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Applebee’s Parmesan cream sauce recipe is its flexibility for meal prep—we can easily make it ahead to save time on busy days while preserving that rich, creamy texture and cheesy flavor. This approach allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when you’re ready to serve.
Preparing the Sauce in Advance
To make our sauce ahead, follow these simple steps after completing the cooking process outlined earlier:
- Cool the sauce completely: Once the sauce has reached the desired thickness, remove it from the heat and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This prevents condensation in storage containers, which could alter the creamy consistency.
- Portion for convenience: Divide the sauce into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. We recommend using portions that match your typical serving sizes, such as 1-cup amounts, to minimize waste and make reheating straightforward.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the sauce’s luxurious, velvety texture and fresh garlic-Parmesan aroma. Here’s how we handle it:
- Refrigeration: Store the cooled sauce in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Always use a sealed container to lock in freshness and prevent any absorption of other odors from the fridge.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the sauce for up to 2-3 months. Freezing works best if you avoid adding fresh herbs like parsley until reheating, as they can become mushy.
To summarize the storage times clearly, we’ve compiled the details in the table below:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3-5 days | Keep in an airtight container; stir before reheating to restore creaminess. |
| Freezing | 2-3 months | Use freezer-safe bags; thaw overnight in the fridge for even defrosting. |
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to enjoy our sauce, reheat it gently to preserve its smooth, decadent consistency and avoid separation:
- In a saucepan: Place the desired amount in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously with a whisk until warmed through, about 5 minutes. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to thin it out and enhance that silky feel.
- In the microwave: For quick reheating, transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot. This method takes about 1-2 minutes total but we advise using it for small amounts to prevent overheating.
By following these steps, we ensure our Applebee’s Parmesan cream sauce remains a versatile, flavorful staple that elevates any meal with minimal effort.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Applebee’s Parmesan cream sauce recipe as a simple way to elevate your home cooking. It’s become a go-to for us due to its effortless prep and versatile charm.
By trying it out, you’ll discover how a few fresh ingredients create magic in your kitchen. Let’s make every meal memorable with our flavorful twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Applebee’s Parmesan cream sauce?
Applebee’s Parmesan cream sauce is a rich, cheesy condiment inspired by the restaurant favorite. It’s versatile, perfect for pasta, chicken, or vegetables, and delivers a flavorful boost to any dish. This quick recipe makes it easy to recreate at home, impressing guests with its creamy texture and authentic taste.
What ingredients are needed for the recipe?
You’ll need unsalted butter, minced garlic, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional fresh parsley. Use precise measurements like 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of cream for accuracy. Fresh ingredients, especially Parmesan, ensure the best luxurious flavor and texture—prep in just 5-10 minutes.
What tools are required to make this sauce?
Essential tools include a medium saucepan for cooking, a whisk to blend ingredients smoothly, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a wooden spoon for stirring, and a heat-resistant spatula. These help achieve the perfect creamy consistency without hassle, making the process straightforward and efficient.
How do I prepare Applebee’s Parmesan cream sauce?
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan, then sauté minced garlic for a minute. Add 1 cup of heavy cream, stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Prep ingredients first for easy cooking—this yields a decadent sauce ready for your favorite meals.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Applebee’s Parmesan cream sauce in advance for meal prep. Cook as directed, then cool completely before storing in airtight containers. Refrigerate for 3-5 days or freeze for 2-3 months to keep it fresh and flavorful.
How should I store and reheat the sauce?
Store the cooled sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-5 days or freeze for 2-3 months. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring to maintain smoothness, or use a microwave in short bursts. This preserves the creamy texture for easy use in future meals.
What dishes pair well with this sauce?
This sauce enhances pasta, chicken, vegetables, or even steak with its rich, cheesy flavor. It’s versatile for everyday dinners or gatherings, adding a gourmet touch. Experiment with it as a dip or topping for a quick flavor upgrade in your favorite recipes.