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Palomino Sauce Recipe

Palomino sauce is a creamy tomato-based sauce often used in Italian-American cuisine. It is known for its rich, velvety texture and a perfect balance of tomato and cream flavors. This sauce pairs wonderfully with pasta, chicken, or seafood and can elevate any simple dish to something special.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course, Sauce/Condiment
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4 people
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Large saucepan or skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Heat the Oil: In a large saucepan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, making sure not to burn the garlic.
  • Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
  • Season the Sauce: Add the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. If the tomatoes are too acidic, you can add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavor. Stir well.
  • Simmer: Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  • Add Cream and Parmesan: Slowly stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to cook on low heat until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  • Serve: Serve immediately over your favorite pasta, chicken, or seafood. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Tips

  • Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer. If it's too thick, you can add a splash of pasta cooking water or broth to thin it out.
  • Extra Flavor: For additional depth of flavor, you can add a splash of white wine after sautéing the onions and garlic.
  • Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a slightly different flavor profile.
  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Palomino sauce is a versatile and easy-to-make sauce that can quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Its creamy and savory profile complements a wide variety of dishes, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions.