Last summer, I grilled shrimp for a family barbecue. I needed a fast sauce to go with it. I threw together butter, garlic, and spices from my pantry. The creamy mix with a kick turned plain shrimp into a hit. Everyone asked for seconds. Now, I use this sauce often. It adds flavor to simple meals.
Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Total time: 10 minutes Servings: 4 (about 2 cups)
Ingredients
List in the order you add them.
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
Make it in one pan for easy cleanup.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until it smells good.
- Pour in white wine. Let it reduce by half, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, and oregano. Cook for 30 seconds.
- Add heavy cream. Bring to a simmer. Cook for 2 minutes until thick.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese and parsley. Stir until cheese melts.
- Add lemon juice if you want a bright note. Taste and add salt if needed.
- Use right away or let cool.
What Makes This Sauce Stand Out
This sauce blends creamy texture with spicy notes. Cajun seasoning gives heat without too much fire. Garlic and herbs add depth. Each cup has about 200 calories, mostly from cream. It beats jarred sauces with fresh taste. Use it to boost protein or veggies.
For more sauce ideas, try our Smash Burger Sauce Recipe.
Tips and Variations
- Stir often to keep cream from curdling.
- Add more Cajun seasoning for extra spice.
- Mix in cooked shrimp or chicken at the end.
- Use over grilled fish for a bold twist.
- Blend in sun-dried tomatoes for a red color.
Substitution Ideas
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Use vegetable broth instead of wine for no alcohol.
- Skip Parmesan for dairy-free. Try nutritional yeast.
- Replace oregano with thyme for a different herb taste.
- Cut Cajun seasoning in half for less heat. Add black pepper.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat with a splash of milk to smooth it. Make ahead for meals. Freeze in portions for 1 month. Thaw in fridge before use. Stir well after thawing.
Serving Suggestions
Drizzle over pasta for a fast dinner. Spoon on seafood like shrimp or salmon. Pair with chicken for a full meal. Serve with our Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts Recipe for veggies. Or add to Southern Mac and Cheese Recipe for comfort. This sauce works for weeknights or gatherings.
Try this recipe next time you cook. It might become your favorite too. For more on Cajun flavors, check sites like Allrecipes for seasoning mixes.