Ingredients
Method
- Now, let's get cooking. Follow these clear steps to make your Buffalo Wild Wings-inspired Parmesan Garlic Sauce.
Step 1: Melt the Butter
- In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t brown; we want it glistening and golden.
Step 2: Add Garlic
- Once the butter is melted, add the finely chopped garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This step is crucial! Too much heat can turn garlic bitter.
Step 3: Create a Roux
- Sprinkle the flour into the pan, stirring continuously. Cook this mixture, known as a roux, for about 1 minute. This helps thicken your sauce and allows the flour’s raw taste to cook out.
Step 4: Whisk in the Chicken Broth
- Gradually whisk in the low-sodium chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Keep stirring while it simmers until it slightly thickens, roughly 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Parmesan
- Add the heavy whipping cream next. Stir smoothly, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts completely, resulting in a luscious texture.
Step 6: Flavor it Up
- Stir in the dried Italian herb blend, sugar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and crushed red pepper flakes. Allow this to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring often.
Step 7: Final Touches
- Taste your sauce. Adjust salt and black pepper accordingly. Add the fresh basil last for an aromatic finish. Voila! Your sauce is ready to rock!
Notes
Here are five tips to ensure your sauce comes out perfectly:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese and garlic make an immense difference in flavor. Don’t skimp here.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the roux to cook adequately before adding liquid. This step avoids any raw flour taste.
- Balance Your Flavors: Taste as you go. Adjust lemon juice or sugar depending on your preference.
- Keep it Warm: If serving later, keep the sauce warm on low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent separation.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, let the sauce cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge.
