Creamy Garlic Alfredo Sauce

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Try your hand at this Creamy Garlic Alfredo Sauce — a silky, savory delight that's perfect for pasta nights. This homemade version packs a punch of flavor with just a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Alfredo Sauce

Butter forms the rich base of the sauce, giving it a creamy texture. Make sure to use unsalted butter to control the saltiness.

Heavy cream adds that indulgent, smooth consistency that's classic in Alfredo sauce. It's what makes the sauce luxuriously rich.

Parmesan cheese, grated fresh, is non-negotiable for that authentic savory flavor. It melts into the sauce, adding depth and a hint of nuttiness.

Garlic infuses the sauce with a warm, aromatic essence. Mince it finely for even distribution and maximum flavor.

Salt is essential to balance the flavors. Start with a teaspoon and adjust according to your preference.

Black pepper adds a subtle heat and enhances the overall taste profile. Freshly ground is best.

Nutmeg might seem unusual, but just a pinch adds a mysterious warmth that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Fresh parsley gives a fresh, vibrant finish to the sauce. It adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness.

Tips & Tricks

  • If the sauce gets too thick, thin it out with a splash of pasta cooking water. It helps to bind the sauce to the pasta.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
  • For a hint of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic.

Serving Suggestions

This Alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with fettuccine, but it's also a great companion for penne or rigatoni. For a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp on top. A side of garlic bread and a simple green salad will round out your meal nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of cream if needed.
Is there a way to make this sauce lighter?
You can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

Creamy Garlic Alfredo Sauce Recipe Walkthrough

Start by melting the butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute until it becomes golden and fragrant — be careful not to let it burn, as this can make the sauce bitter.

Next, pour in the heavy cream. Stir it gently, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This should take just a few minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from scorching.

Now, gradually add the Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously. Make sure it melts completely, creating a smooth, cohesive sauce. This step is key for that velvety texture.

Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and a dash of nutmeg. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remember, the cheese adds saltiness, so taste before adding more salt.

Finally, remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley. This not only adds flavor but also brightens up the sauce visually. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make, ready in under 20 minutes.
  • Rich, velvety texture that elevates any pasta dish.
  • Customizable to suit your taste preferences.
  • Uses simple, readily available ingredients.
  • No artificial flavors or preservatives.

Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic, sautéing until golden.
2. Add heavy cream to the saucepan, stirring occasionally, and bring to a simmer.
3. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated and smooth.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg, adjusting to taste.
5. Remove from heat and stir in freshly chopped parsley before serving.

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