Original Alfredo Sauce

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Original Alfredo Sauce is the creamy, cheesy comfort food that instantly elevates any pasta dish. This homemade version uses simple, fresh ingredients to create a rich and velvety sauce that's miles ahead of anything from a jar.

Ingredients for Original Alfredo Sauce

The foundation of any great Alfredo sauce is its ingredients. Here’s what each one brings to the table. Unsalted butter acts as the base, giving the sauce its rich, silky texture. Heavy cream adds to that luscious mouthfeel and helps the sauce cling to the pasta. Parmesan cheese is the star player, offering a sharp, salty tang that defines Alfredo. A touch of salt and freshly ground black pepper adds depth and enhances all the flavors. Finally, a pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and subtly rounds out the sauce.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated. It melts better and gives a superior flavor.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
  • For a smoother sauce, ensure the cream is at room temperature before adding it to the butter.

Serving Suggestions

This Alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with fettuccine, but don’t be afraid to try it with penne or rotini to capture all that creamy goodness. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein, and consider a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Parmesan is traditional, Pecorino Romano can also work, but it will be saltier, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Is there a way to make this sauce lighter?
You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but be aware that the sauce will be less rich and may not thicken as well.

Original Alfredo Sauce Recipe Walkthrough

Start by melting 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to stir it gently so it melts evenly. Once the butter is fully melted, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir frequently and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You don’t want it to boil, just bubble slightly around the edges.

Reduce the heat to low and gradually add 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously to ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the cream and butter mixture. It’s important to keep the heat low to prevent the cheese from clumping or becoming gritty.

Once the cheese is fully incorporated, season the sauce with 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir everything together and continue to cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your liking. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.

Take the saucepan off the heat and serve immediately over your favorite cooked pasta. Toss to coat the pasta evenly and enjoy the creamy decadence with each bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make — ready in under 15 minutes.
  • Uses only five ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen.
  • No preservatives or artificial ingredients — just pure, creamy goodness.
  • Perfect for a last-minute dinner that's sure to impress.

Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Pinch of nutmeg

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
3. Reduce the heat and gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted and smooth.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavor.
5. Continue to cook the sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Serve immediately over cooked pasta of your choice and enjoy.

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