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alfredo sauce
Nisrine Idrissii

Homemade Alfredo Sauce

5 from 1 vote
A rich, creamy sauce made with butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan—simple to prepare and ideal for elevating pasta or veggies into a comforting meal.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 670

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 1/2 cups Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground (or to taste)
  • Optional: Pinch of nutmeg fresh parsley, or red pepper flakes.

Equipment

  • 1 large skillet or saucepan
  • 1 whisk or wooden spoon for stirring
  • 1 cheese grater
  • 1 knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan cheese; measure out all ingredients for quick assembly.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter completely without browning it.
  3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream, stir to combine, and bring to a gentle simmer; cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
  5. Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan a handful at a time until fully melted and smooth.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg; stir well and remove from heat. (If too thick, add a splash of pasta water.)
  7. Serve immediately over pasta or as desired.

Notes

  • For the smoothest sauce, always use freshly grated cheese—pre-shredded varieties can make it grainy due to additives.
  • This sauce thickens as it cools, so reheat gently with a bit of cream or milk if needed.
  • Customize it: Stir in cooked proteins like chicken or shrimp at the end, or add veggies for a balanced dish. I once added lemon zest for a bright twist, and it paired wonderfully with seafood.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; avoid freezing as it may separate.
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