One Pan Fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy, rich, and incredibly easy pasta dish made in just one skillet. By cooking the pasta directly in the sauce, it absorbs all the delicious flavors, resulting in a silky, restaurant-quality Alfredo with minimal effort and cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cooks in just one pan for easy cleanup
- Creamy, rich, and full of flavor
- No need to boil pasta separately
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect for a quick weeknight meal
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fettuccine pasta
- Unsalted butter
- Garlic
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth or water
- Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- Salt and black pepper
- Nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Melt butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add liquid: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Cook pasta: Add the uncooked fettuccine and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens (about 12-15 minutes).
- Stir in cheese: Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Chicken Alfredo: Add cooked chicken breast for extra protein.
- Seafood Twist: Stir in shrimp or scallops for a seafood version.
- Vegetarian Option: Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or Pecorino Romano for more depth.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the sauce may separate.
- Reheating: Warm on low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. You can add a bit more Parmesan to thicken it.
Do I have to cook the pasta separately?
No, the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors.
What’s the best Parmesan cheese to use?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has the best flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! Chicken, shrimp, or even bacon are great additions.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
If it thickens too much, add a bit more broth or cream while stirring.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, but adjust cooking time based on pasta shape. Spaghetti or linguine work well.
Is nutmeg necessary?
No, but a pinch adds a subtle warmth to the dish.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth and cheese are gluten-free.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can reheat with extra cream if needed.
What can I serve with Fettuccine Alfredo?
Garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables make great sides.
Conclusion
One Pan Fettuccine Alfredo is a simple yet indulgent meal that’s perfect for busy nights or special occasions. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and minimal cleanup, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade Alfredo!
PrintOne Pan Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
This one-pan fettuccine alfredo is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor—made in just one pot for easy cleanup! Perfect for a quick and comforting dinner.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pan Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- ½ cup whole milk (for extra creaminess)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Combine Ingredients in a Pan:
- In a large deep skillet or pan, add fettuccine, heavy cream, chicken broth, butter, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
-
Cook the Pasta:
- Let the pasta cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
-
Add Cheese & Milk:
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese and whole milk.
- Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
-
Finish & Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a protein boost, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.