Name: Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best); Black pepper (to taste); Sea salt (to taste); Nutmeg (optional, to taste)

This Alfredo Sauce is a classic Italian sauce that’s rich, creamy, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of this luscious sauce that’s perfect for pasta, vegetables, chicken, and more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy: This sauce is made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, creating a velvety smooth texture and a decadent flavor.
Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this sauce comes together in minutes.
Versatile: Use it for pasta dishes, chicken Alfredo, or as a topping for grilled vegetables or fish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic Alfredo sauce:

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
Heavy cream: Creates the creamy base of the sauce.
Parmesan cheese: Grated, preferably freshly grated, for the best flavor and texture.
Black pepper: To taste.
Sea salt: To taste.
Nutmeg: Optional, adds a warm and slightly sweet spice.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

Step 2: Simmer the Cream

Add the heavy cream to the saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer. Continue simmering for about 5 minutes, or until the cream has thickened and reduced by about 1/3. The amount of time will vary depending on the size of your saucepan.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, a little at a time, until it’s fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Stir in the nutmeg (if using), sea salt, and black pepper to taste. If the sauce is thicker than you like, you can thin it out with a splash more heavy cream. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta or other dish.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use high-quality cheese: The better the quality of your Parmesan cheese, the better the flavor of the sauce.
Don’t overcook the sauce: Overcooking can cause the sauce to become too thick or even separate. Simmer gently and watch it carefully.
Adjust the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more cream. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.

How to Serve Alfredo Sauce

Pasta: This Alfredo Sauce is classic with fettuccine, but it’s also delicious with other pasta shapes like penne, spaghetti, or rotini.
Chicken Alfredo: Toss the sauce with cooked chicken and pasta for a classic Chicken Alfredo dish.
Vegetables: Drizzle the sauce over grilled or roasted vegetables for a flavorful and creamy side dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring frequently, until warmed through. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of cream or milk to thin it out.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can use milk, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For a thicker sauce, you can use a combination of milk and heavy cream.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
While freshly grated Parmesan cheese is always best for flavor and texture, you can use pre-shredded cheese in a pinch.

Can I freeze Alfredo sauce?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. The texture may change slightly after freezing.

How can I make this sauce spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.

There you have it! A quick, easy, and delicious recipe for Alfredo Sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!