Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo

Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo is a timeless Italian-American pasta dish known for its rich, velvety sauce made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Simple yet indulgent, this dish is a favorite for weeknight dinners, date nights, or anytime you’re craving comfort food with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra-creamy texture with rich, cheesy flavor
• Made with just a few simple ingredients
• Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes
• Customizable with proteins or veggies
• Kid-friendly and great for entertaining
• Restaurant-quality dish made at home

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fettuccine pasta
• Unsalted butter
• Heavy cream
• Fresh garlic (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic if using, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
6. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. Prep time is 5 minutes and cook time is 15–20 minutes, making this a 25-minute meal from start to finish.

Variations

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon for extra protein
• Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for added veggies
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter option
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or lemon zest for extra depth
• Substitute fettuccine with linguine, spaghetti, or gluten-free pasta

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency. Avoid microwaving at high power, which can separate the sauce.

FAQs

Can I make Alfredo sauce without cream?

Yes, you can use milk with a bit of flour or cream cheese for a lighter version, though the richness will differ.

What kind of Parmesan should I use?

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor — avoid pre-shredded.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

How do I prevent the sauce from clumping?

Add cheese gradually off the heat and stir constantly to ensure it melts smoothly.

Is Alfredo sauce the same as white sauce?

No, Alfredo is made with cream and cheese, while white sauce (béchamel) starts with a roux of butter and flour.

Can I freeze Alfredo pasta?

Freezing is not recommended as the cream-based sauce can separate upon reheating.

What pasta works best with Alfredo sauce?

Fettuccine is traditional, but other flat pastas like linguine or tagliatelle work well.

Can I use garlic in Alfredo sauce?

Yes, garlic adds flavor and is often used in modern versions of the recipe.

What protein pairs best with Alfredo?

Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or pan-seared salmon are excellent options.

How do I make it extra cheesy?

Stir in a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or Pecorino Romano for extra richness.

Conclusion

Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo is a comforting classic that never goes out of style. With its smooth, buttery cheese sauce and tender pasta, it’s an irresistible dish that’s quick enough for a busy night and special enough for any occasion. Customize it to your taste, and enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal at home.

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