Creamy Herbed Alfredo Sauce

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Welcome to a simple, yet indulgent recipe for Creamy Herbed Alfredo Sauce. This sauce is a dreamy blend of rich cream, aromatic herbs, and the savory depth of Parmesan cheese. It's perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Creamy Herbed Alfredo Sauce

The magic of this sauce lies in its simplicity. Butter provides a rich base that helps carry the flavors of the garlic and herbs. Using heavy cream gives the sauce its signature creaminess, while Parmesan cheese adds a savory, umami depth. Garlic infuses the sauce with its unmistakable aroma, and the addition of fresh basil and parsley brings in a fresh, vibrant flavor. A bit of black pepper and salt rounds everything out, enhancing the other ingredients without overpowering them.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a smoother sauce, use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated. It melts better and tastes fresher.
  • Control the thickness by simmering longer for a thicker sauce or adding a splash of milk to thin it out.
  • If the sauce breaks (separates), whisk in a bit of cold cream to bring it back together.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy Alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. Toss it with fettuccine or your favorite pasta for a classic meal, or drizzle it over roasted vegetables for a delicious twist. It also makes a decadent topping for grilled chicken or shrimp. For a complete meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad and some crusty bread to sop up every drop of sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. You might need to simmer it longer to achieve the desired thickness.
How can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Prepare the sauce and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to reach the right consistency.

Creamy Herbed Alfredo Sauce Recipe Walkthrough

First, grab a medium saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. You want it to be fully melted but not browned, as we’re aiming for a smooth, even base. Once the butter is ready, toss in the minced garlic. Stir it around for about a minute, just until it becomes fragrant. This short sauté ensures the garlic's flavor infuses the butter without turning bitter.

Next, pour in the heavy cream. Stir occasionally and bring it to a gentle simmer. You’re not boiling here; a gentle simmer is all you need to meld the flavors together. Now, gradually add the Parmesan cheese. Stir slowly to let it melt evenly. If you add it all at once, it might clump, so patience is key!

Once the cheese is nicely integrated, sprinkle in the chopped basil and parsley. These herbs should be fresh to give the sauce a bright, garden-fresh kick. Finally, season the sauce with black pepper and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens to your liking. If it clings well to the back of a spoon, you're good to go!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to make — ready in just 15 minutes.
  • Rich, creamy texture that clings beautifully to pasta.
  • Fresh herbs add a delightful twist to the classic Alfredo.
  • Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1/4 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese gradually, ensuring it melts evenly.
5. Add chopped basil and parsley, and season with black pepper and salt.
6. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

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