Sassy Sauces and Seasonings: Alfredo Sauce

Ingredients
32 fluid ounces half and half
1/4 small onion
4 cloves of garlic quarted
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon parsley
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoon flour
2 tablespoons regular cream cheese
1 pinch ground nutmeg
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
salt and white pepper to taste


Directions
In a saucepan over low heat, simmer the half and half, onion, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, oregano, and parsley, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat.

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Add flour and stir until flour is cooked and roux is formed.

Strain milk mixture and thoroughly blend in the warmed milk, stirring constantly.

Add cream cheese and continue to stir.

Stir in nutmeg and grated Parmesan cheese.  Stir constantly until cheese is completely melted.

Simmer over medium low heat for 3 to 5 minutes. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Add salt and pepper to taste.