Description
This rich and creamy homemade Alfredo sauce is a classic Italian favorite, perfect for drizzling over fettuccine or your choice of pasta and protein. Made from butter, garlic, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, it offers a luxurious texture and rich flavor that’s simple to prepare in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Alfredo Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter completely to create a smooth base for the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Heavy Cream: Reduce the heat slightly and stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes to thicken and blend flavors.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Season Sauce: Add salt, ground black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired, stirring to combine evenly.
- Serve: Remove the Alfredo sauce from heat and serve immediately over hot cooked pasta or your preferred protein.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth texture.
- Do not boil the sauce after adding cheese to prevent it from curdling.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially salt as Parmesan is naturally salty.
- You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to make it a complete meal.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, but sauce will be less creamy.
