Creamy Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Alfredo sauce is a rich, creamy Italian classic that elevates any pasta dish. Made with simple ingredients like butter, cream, garlic, and parmesan, it’s quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Step 2: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently and allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- Step 3: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Continue stirring for another 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Step 4: Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but expect a thinner sauce.
- Add freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- If the sauce gets too thick, stir in a little pasta cooking water to loosen it up.
Storage
Store leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separating. Add a splash of cream or milk if it becomes too thick.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Alfredo sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat slowly on low heat and stir constantly to maintain the creamy texture.
Is Alfredo sauce gluten-free?
Traditional Alfredo sauce is gluten-free as it contains no flour or gluten ingredients. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free pasta if needed.
PrintCreamy Alfredo Sauce Recipe
A rich and creamy Alfredo sauce made from butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic, perfect for dressing pasta dishes or as a decadent sauce for various meals.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup of sauce (serves 4) 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Alfredo Sauce Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, stirring frequently.
- Add Cream and Simmer: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Lower the heat and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent the cheese from clumping.
- Season and Serve: Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve immediately over pasta or your favorite dish.
Notes
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth texture.
- Do not boil the sauce vigorously as it can cause the cream to separate.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream but expect a thinner sauce.
- Alfredo sauce is best served immediately but can be gently reheated over low heat.
Keywords: Alfredo sauce, creamy pasta sauce, butter cream sauce, Parmesan sauce, garlic Alfredo
