"Failure Proof" Cream Sauce

Prep: 5 min Cook: 5 min Cuisine: American

A rich, creamy sauce with butter, flour, and evaporated milk, perfect for pasta, vegetables, or meats, offering a smooth, savory flavor that elevates any dish.

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Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp butter
  • 2 Tbsp flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 2/3 cups undiluted Carnation evaporated milk

Instructions

  1. Put the butter, flour, and salt into a medium-sized saucepan. Turn the heat to low.
  2. Place the saucepan on the stove.
  3. Stir the butter and flour mixture over low heat until smooth and well mixed, about 2 minutes.
  4. Gradually pour the evaporated milk into the saucepan while stirring.
  5. Stir with a wooden spoon until the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

To ensure a smooth cream sauce, make sure the butter is fully melted before adding the flour. If you want a thicker sauce, simply increase the flour slightly or let it simmer longer. For a twist, you can incorporate garlic powder or Parmesan cheese for added flavor. This sauce can also serve as a base for other dishes or be used in recipes like Lemon Lightning Cake for a creamy topping.

Serving Suggestions

This cream sauce is versatile and can be served over pasta, vegetables, or chicken. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Bread Pudding And Brandy Sauce, or used in casseroles. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the sauce over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to restore its creamy texture. If it thickens too much, whisk in a small amount of milk to loosen it back up.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of "Failure Proof" Cream Sauce contains roughly 33 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1744mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).

33 kcal 2% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.8g 2% DV
Total Fat 0.7g 1% DV
Carbs 5.7g 2% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 1744.3mg 76% DV
Potassium 8.4mg
Cholesterol 1.9mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium 2.2mg
Iron 0.4mg 2% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?

Yes, you can use regular milk, but the sauce may be less creamy. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider using half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream for a similar texture.

What can I add to the sauce for extra flavor?

You can add herbs like thyme or oregano, or spices such as paprika or nutmeg. For a cheesy version, incorporate grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese while stirring, allowing it to melt into the sauce for an extra layer of taste.

Is this sauce suitable for vegetarian diets?

Yes, this cream sauce is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat-based ingredients. It can be used in various vegetarian recipes, making it a great addition to your meal rotation.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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