This smooth, velvety Alfredo sauce is the ultimate comfort food — rich, buttery, and full of Parmesan flavor. Perfect over fettuccine or as a base for chicken, shrimp, or vegetable pasta dishes.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Servings: 4
- Yield: About 2 cups of sauce
Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional, for flavor)
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Directions
- Melt the Butter:
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. If using garlic, add it to the melted butter and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. - Add the Cream:
Slowly whisk in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil), stirring frequently for about 2–3 minutes. - Add the Cheese:
Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated. - Season:
Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. - Serve Immediately:
Toss the sauce with hot cooked fettuccine pasta or your favorite noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.
🍴 Tips
- For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded cheese.
- Don’t overheat the sauce — high heat can cause it to separate.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or broccoli for a complete meal.
