Creamy Alfredo Sauce with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe

A rich and creamy Alfredo sauce with Parmesan and garlic that is perfect for pasta.

Alfredo sauce is a classic Italian sauce that has garnered worldwide popularity. This creamy, rich sauce, which originated in Rome, has been adapted in countless ways to suit individual tastes. Our version stays true to its roots while amplifying the flavors of Parmesan and garlic, making it irresistible. Whether you are hosting a fancy dinner or preparing a comforting weeknight meal, this Alfredo sauce is your ticket to culinary success.

Making Alfredo sauce from scratch might seem intimidating, but it's quite simple and infinitely rewarding. Unlike store-bought versions, homemade Alfredo sauce has a depth of flavor that jarred or packaged sauces can't match. In this recipe, we use real ingredients like butter, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The result? A velvety, savory sauce that will cling flawlessly to every strand of fettuccine or any pasta of your choice.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 and 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Nutrition

Calories: ~450 calories

Instructions

1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Allow it to melt completely but avoid browning it.
2. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
3. Pour in Heavy Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while continuously stirring. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Parmesan Cheese: Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Season the Sauce: Season the sauce with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
6. Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few more minutes to reach your desired consistency. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
7. Serve: Remove the sauce from the heat and serve immediately over your favorite pasta. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and added flavor.

Tips and Tricks:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh Parmesan cheese and grate it yourself. Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that can affect the texture of the sauce.

2. Be Mindful of Heat: When making Alfredo sauce, maintain a medium to low heat to prevent the cream from curdling and the cheese from clumping.

3. Storage: Alfredo sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat while stirring constantly.

4. Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to the sauce for a complete meal.

History of Alfredo Sauce:

Alfredo sauce dates back to the early 20th century. It was created by Alfredo di Lelio, who opened a restaurant in Rome. Seeking to create a dish that would be gentle on his wife's stomach during her pregnancy, Alfredo combined fettuccine with a buttery cheese sauce. The dish became immensely popular among American tourists visiting Rome, and they brought the recipe back to the United States, where it evolved into the richer, creamier version we know today.

In the U.S., Alfredo sauce became associated with Italian-American cuisine and became a staple in many households and restaurants. Though traditional Italian cuisine rarely includes cream-based sauces, Alfredo sauce is a beloved comfort food in many parts of the world.

On a final note, making Alfredo sauce from scratch allows you to appreciate the simplicity and purity of this iconic sauce. It’s a true testament to how basic ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary. Enjoy your creamy Alfredo sauce with Parmesan and garlic, and savor the timeless flavors of this classic dish.