Alfredo Sauce Recipe | Creamy and Classic Italian Sauce

Authentic Alfredo Sauce Recipe with Parmesan and Garlic

A dependable Alfredo Sauce Recipe focuses on balance and timing with gentle heat, fresh ingredients, and patience. Rushing the sauce or overheating the cream causes separation instead of the smooth, velvety texture that makes Alfredo so distinct. Using quality butter, freshly grated Parmesan, and a touch of garlic delivers flavor without heaviness.

This recipe is for anyone who wants a simple, authentic cream sauce for pasta, chicken, or vegetables, ready in minutes and made from pantry basics.

Difficulty: Easy

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Sauce

Cuisine: Italian, Italian-American

Calories: 370

Ingredients Method Video Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup unsalted butter 1 stick.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves minced (optional).
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)

Method

 

1. Melt butter. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until it starts to foam slightly.
2. Add garlic (optional). Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add cream. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Do not boil.
4. Add the cheese. Lower the heat and whisk in the Parmesan gradually until smooth.
5. Season. Add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Finish. Remove from heat once the sauce coats the back of a spoon. Serve immediately over pasta or vegetables.

Video

Notes

Butter quality: Use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt.

Garlic: Optional but adds subtle depth; avoid burning it.

Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded.

Heat control: Keep the sauce below boiling to prevent curdling.

Tips & Tricks

• Cream substitute: Half-and-half works but produces a lighter texture.
• Thickening: If the sauce is too thin, simmer for an additional 1–2 minutes.
• Storage: Keeps for 2-3 days in the fridge; reheat gently with a splash of milk.
• Add-ins: Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or spinach for variations.
• Pasta pairing: Fettuccine, linguine, or even penne works best for coating.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic pasta: Toss with fettuccine for the traditional version.
• Protein pairing: Serve with grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Vegetarian option: Use as a sauce for roasted vegetables.
• Side dish: Drizzle over steamed broccoli or baked potatoes.
• Baked dishes: Use as a white sauce for lasagna or casseroles.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~370
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbs: 3 g
• Fat: 36 g
• Fiber: 0 g