- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat until lightly foaming. 
- Add minced garlic; sauté ~60 seconds, stirring constantly. 
- Whisk in flour; cook ~2 minutes until light golden and nutty. 
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer. 
- Simmer 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. 
- Reduce heat to low; pour in heavy cream and warm ~3 minutes (don’t boil). 
- Remove pot from heat for 2 minutes to cool slightly. 
- Stir in Parmesan in three batches; melt fully between additions. 
- Adjust with salt and pepper; thin with a splash of broth/cream if needed. 
- Ladle into bowls; top with herbs, croutons, and Parmesan shavings.