This fettuccine Alfredo recipe is creamy pasta at its best! The homemade Alfredo sauce is rich, silky, and easy to make with simple ingredients.
Introduction
This fettuccine Alfredo recipe is perfect for those evenings when only creamy pasta will do—think Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or simply when you’re craving something comforting and quick. Made with just eight basic ingredients, it comes together in 20 minutes yet tastes like a restaurant-quality dish. It’s simple, flavorful, and indulgent—your taste buds will thank you!
My Homemade Alfredo Sauce
For years, I relied on a cauliflower Alfredo sauce to satisfy my cravings. Recently, however, with extra cream on hand from testing a tiramisu recipe, I decided to work on a traditional Alfredo sauce.
This recipe follows the Italian-American approach to Alfredo, where the original sauce from early twentieth-century Rome consisted solely of Parmesan cheese and butter. As American cooks adapted, cream was added for richness and easier incorporation of the cheese. This decadent version is sure to delight!
Fettuccine Alfredo Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful dish:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fettuccine | 8 oz (or a long pasta alternative) |
| Butter | ½ cup |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1 cup, grated |
| Fresh parsley | For garnish |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
Check out the complete recipe with measurements in the instructions below.
How to Make Fettuccine Alfredo
For a quick overview on how to prepare this tasty dish:
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Simmer the sauce: Melt butter in a large skillet over low heat. Whisk in the cream, garlic, and salt. Let it simmer for 5 to 8 minutes until thickened.
- Add cheese: Stir in half the Parmesan until melted.
- Toss pasta and serve: Combine the pasta with the cream sauce. Add the remaining cheese, tossing until melted. Adjust the sauce’s consistency using reserved pasta water as needed. Season to taste, then serve garnished with parsley.
Recipe Tips
- Grate the cheese yourself: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Add cheese in two batches: Incorporate half into the sauce before adding the pasta, then the rest after tossing.
- Use reserved pasta water: This starchy water can thin the sauce while adding flavor.
- Add veggies: Enhance the dish by folding in fresh spinach, asparagus, or broccoli.
What to Serve with Fettuccine Alfredo
This dish pairs excellently with a fresh salad or green vegetables, providing balance to its richness. You can also add garlic bread or homemade focaccia to soak up any leftover sauce.
More Pasta Recipes to Try
If you’re a fan of this fettuccine Alfredo recipe, you might want to explore these dishes next:
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to make Fettuccine Alfredo?
- This recipe is quick and easy, taking about 20 minutes in total.
- Can I substitute the heavy cream?
- While heavy cream provides the richest flavor, whole milk or a non-dairy alternative can be used, but the sauce may be thinner.