There’s nothing quite like the creamy, rich taste of Homemade Alfredo Sauce to take your pasta night to the next level. Made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, this classic recipe is full of flavor and comes together in no time. Whether you're pairing it with fettuccine, using it as a dip, or creating a base for your favorite casseroles, this Alfredo sauce is sure to become a go-to recipe.
Alfredo sauce is a favorite in our house! What's your favorite way to use Alfredo? Here are some delicious recipes to fulfill all your Alfredo fantasies: Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo, Tortellini with Rose Sauce, and Homemade Fettucine Alfredo.
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This simple recipe has become a staple in my kitchen—not just for its quick and easy preparation but because my family insisted on it for our annual Christmas party every year. Ready in just 15 minutes, this rich and creamy sauce is made with fresh, wholesome ingredients that deliver an authentic flavor far better than anything you’ll find in a jar. With its velvety texture and the ability to customize the seasoning to your liking, it’s no surprise this recipe has earned a permanent spot on our holiday menu. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, it transforms a few simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing, restaurant-quality dish everyone will rave about.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This delicious creamy alfredo sauce is easy and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
- Creamy and Rich: The combination of heavy cream and butter creates a creamy white sauce that is decadently creamy and rich, appealing to those who love indulgent dishes.
- Versatile: It pairs well with various types of pasta, proteins like chicken or shrimp, and even vegetables, offering endless meal possibilities.
- Classic Flavor: The traditional ingredients provide an authentic taste that Alfredo sauce lovers will appreciate.
- Customizable: It can be easily adjusted with additional spices or herbs to suit personal preferences.
Ingredients and Substitutions
See the recipe card below for a complete ingredient list and measurements.
- Unsalted butter - Provides a rich and creamy base for the sauce, allowing you to control the salt level.
- Garlic - Adds a fragrant, savory note that enhances the overall taste.
- Heavy cream - Creates the creamy, luxurious texture that is characteristic of Alfredo sauce.
- Grated parmesan cheese - Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
How to Homemade Alfredo Sauce
Step 1: Melt ½ cup butter in a saucepan.
Step 2: Add 3 minced garlic cloves and simmer for 30 seconds.
Step 3: Whisk in 2 cups heavy cream and 1 ½ cups Parmesan. Simmer, whisking, until bubbly.
Step 4: Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Serve with pasta or as a dip. Enjoy!
Top Tips
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides superior flavor compared to pre-grated options.
Low and Slow: Cook the sauce over low to medium heat to prevent the cream from curdling and the cheese from clumping.
Whisk Constantly: Keep whisking the sauce to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency and to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water, milk, or cream to thin it out. Simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken if it's too thin.
Don't over-boil: Avoid boiling the sauce, as it can cause the cream to separate and the sauce to become grainy. Keep the sauce at a low boil, just bubbling.
Serve Immediately: Alfredo sauce is best served fresh and hot, as it can thicken as it cools. Serve immediately with your favorite pasta or side dish.
Pasta Water: Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency and help the sauce cling to the pasta better.
Variations
- Spicy - Mix in 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, which gives the sauce a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb - Stir in 1 tablespoon lemon zest and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or basil, which adds a fresh, zesty flavor and a hint of herbaceousness.
- Cajun - Add 1 tablespoon of cajun seasoning to create a cajun version of this yummy sauce.
Storage and Make Ahead
Storage: To refrigerate, allow the Alfredo sauce to cool to room temperature. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: To freeze your sauce, ensure the sauce is completely cooled. Place the sauce in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How to reheat: To reheat on the stovetop, reheat the sauce gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce is too thick. To reheat in the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish to heat in short intervals, stirring between intervals until warmed through.
FAQ
Yes, you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or a blend of cheeses. Just ensure they melt well and have a strong flavor.
Yes, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative, though the sauce may be less rich and creamy.
Gently whisk in a little warm cream or milk to help bring it back together. Make sure to heat the sauce over low heat. Pasta water can also help to freshen the sauce.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
- Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups (Rollatini) Recipe
- Creamy Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
- Creamy Mushroom Fettuccine Alfredo
- Creamy Lemon Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
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- Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette
- Easy Caprese Salad Recipe
- Italian Tuna Salad Recipe
- Italian Tomato Salad Recipe
Homemade Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced (you can substitute garlic powder)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Add ½ cup of unsalted butter to a medium saucepan and stir until melted. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and simmer until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Whisk in 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 ½ cups of grated parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly. You will want the sauce to be bubbly, but be careful not to overheat as this will boil over easily.
- Reduce the heat and allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes. Serve with your favorite variety of pasta or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use Fresh Parmesan Cheese: For the best flavor and creamy texture, grate fresh parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly due to anti-caking agents.
- Low and Slow Heat: Cook the sauce over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream and cheese from scorching or separating.
- Serve Immediately: Alfredo sauce thickens as it cools, so it's best enjoyed right after preparation. If it thickens too much, add a splash of warm cream or milk to adjust the consistency.
Leanne
This alfredo sauce recipe was divine! I will be using this as my alfredo sauce from now on!
Risa
This looks crazy good, I love the garlic added! Looks so creamy and delicious!
Tina
This recipe is so easy and delicious! Better than restaurant quality!