Traditional Fettuccine with Cream Sauce

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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This Traditional Fettuccine with Cream Sauce is the epitome of comfort food. It’s rich, smooth, and perfect for those nights when you want something indulgent but straightforward. A classic dish that never goes out of style.

Ingredients for Traditional Fettuccine with Cream Sauce

Fettuccine is the star of this show, providing a hearty base that soaks up the creamy sauce. It’s important to cook it al dente for the best texture.

Unsalted butter brings richness and depth, forming the foundation of our sauce.

Heavy cream is what makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and creamy. It’s crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Parmesan cheese adds a savory, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce to perfection.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper enhance all the other flavors, so don’t skip on seasoning.

Fresh parsley offers a bright, fresh contrast, adding color and a hint of herby flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an even richer flavor, try browning the butter slightly before adding the cream.
  • Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed.
  • If you prefer a lighter sauce, swap half of the heavy cream with milk.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and taste. Pre-grated cheese can be clumpy and less flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, balancing out the richness of the sauce. A side of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce on your plate. For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp right on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional, you can use any pasta you like. Pappardelle or linguine are great alternatives.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply swap out the fettuccine for a gluten-free pasta of your choice.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
How long will leftovers last?
Stored in an airtight container, leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

Traditional Fettuccine with Cream Sauce Recipe Walkthrough

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Throw in the fettuccine, and let it cook according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. You want it to have a bit of bite since it’ll continue cooking slightly in the sauce.

While your pasta is boiling, grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Toss in the butter and let it melt down completely. Once melted, pour in the heavy cream, giving it a gentle stir. Let it simmer for about five minutes. This is where the magic begins as the cream warms and thickens.

Turn down the heat to low and gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This might take a little patience, but it’s worth it.

Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to suit your taste. Remember, Parmesan adds its own saltiness, so taste as you go.

Drain the cooked fettuccine and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with that luscious sauce.

Finally, top it off with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley before serving. It adds a nice pop of color and flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Minimal ingredients but maximum flavor.
  • A creamy delight that satisfies both kids and adults.
  • Customizable with your favorite proteins or veggies.

Ingredients

12 oz fettuccine
1 cup unsalted butter
1.5 cups heavy cream
1.5 cups grated Parmesan cheese
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
3. Add heavy cream to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce heat to low, add the grated Parmesan cheese, and stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Drain the fettuccine and add to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

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