Creamy Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This creamy Alfredo sauce is rich and flavorful, perfect for elevating any pasta dish. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a simple yet indulgent classic that pairs beautifully with fettuccine or your favorite noodles.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter sauce)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese (refrigerated kind)
• Salt and freshly cracked pepper (to taste)
• Fresh grated nutmeg (optional, to taste)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low to medium heat. Add the cream and bring to a gentle simmer, whisking often. Cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
2. Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Slowly add the Parmesan cheese in two to three batches, whisking constantly until fully melted and smooth.
3. Step 3: Season the sauce with salt, freshly cracked pepper, and if desired, freshly grated nutmeg starting with 1/4 teaspoon. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Step 4: If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of extra cream or reserved pasta water. Toss with your favorite pasta and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute half and half for the heavy cream, but expect a slightly less rich sauce.
• Adding freshly minced parsley or basil at the end can add a fresh herbal note.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor, avoiding pre-grated packets that contain anti-caking agents.
• If you prefer garlic more mild, sauté it gently in the butter before adding cream instead of adding it raw.

Storage

Store leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore smoothness. Avoid boiling to prevent separation.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?

While Parmesan provides the signature flavor, Pecorino Romano can be a nice substitute. Avoid cheeses that don’t melt well, as the sauce may become grainy.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking or curdling?

Keep the heat moderate and avoid boiling the sauce. Stirring frequently and adding cheese gradually helps maintain a smooth texture.

Creamy Alfredo Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 87 reviews

This classic Alfredo Sauce recipe is rich, creamy, and perfect for dressing up your favorite pasta. Made with butter, heavy cream, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, this homemade sauce comes together quickly in about 10 minutes and serves 6. It’s a luscious, flavorful sauce that can be easily customized with a touch of fresh nutmeg for added warmth.

• Author: reem
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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Alfredo Sauce Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter sauce)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese (refrigerated kind)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Freshly grated nutmeg (optional, about ¼ teaspoon)

Instructions

1. Melt Butter and Simmer Cream: In a medium saucepan over medium-low to medium heat, melt the butter. Add the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, making sure it’s lightly bubbling but not boiling. Whisk frequently and cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
2. Add Garlic and Cheese: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute to release its fragrance. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese in two to three batches, whisking constantly until the cheese has fully melted into the cream mixture, creating a smooth blend.
3. Season the Sauce: Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. If using nutmeg, start by adding about ¼ teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg and adjust to your preference. Stir well to combine all flavors.
4. Adjust Consistency and Serve: If the Alfredo sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of extra cream or reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency. Toss the sauce with your favorite cooked pasta and serve immediately for a creamy, decadent meal.

Notes

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor—pre-grated cheese often contains additives that prevent smooth melting.
• If you want a lighter sauce, substitute half and half for the heavy cream.
• Be careful not to let the sauce boil vigorously, as this can cause it to separate.
• The nutmeg is optional but adds a lovely warm depth typical in traditional Alfredo sauces.
• Reserve some pasta water before draining your pasta to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Keywords: Alfredo sauce, creamy pasta sauce, Italian sauce, quick Alfredo, homemade Alfredo sauce, Parmesan sauce