Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe (Better Than Restaurant!)
Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 20 mins
Servings: 2–3 | Cuisine: Italian-American | Course: Main, Dinner
Why This Is the Best Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
Rich, creamy, and decadently delicious, this Fettuccine Alfredo is a simple yet luxurious pasta dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this homemade Alfredo sauce uses just a few ingredients but delivers big on flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional but adds flavor)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins: Grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, shrimp, or spinach
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic (if using) and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Add the Cheese
- Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss and Serve
- Add cooked fettuccine to the sauce and toss until well coated.
- Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
Pro Tips for Perfect Alfredo
- Use freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Don’t overheat the sauce. Keep it on low to prevent separation.
- Add pasta water to create a silky sauce without thinning too much.
- Serve immediately. Alfredo sauce thickens as it sits.
Variations
- Chicken Alfredo: Add grilled or pan-seared chicken on top.
- Shrimp Alfredo: Sauté shrimp with garlic and butter, then add to pasta.
- Low-carb: Swap fettuccine for zucchini noodles or palmini pasta.
- No Cream Version: Use a mix of butter, Parmesan, and reserved pasta water.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Fettuccine Alfredo without cream?
A: Yes! Try a traditional Roman-style version with butter, pasta water, and cheese only.
Q: Can I reheat Alfredo pasta?
A: Yes, reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.
Q: Can I freeze Alfredo sauce?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh. Freezing can cause the sauce to separate when thawed.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad
- Pair with white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
- Add roasted vegetables or seared scallops for extra elegance
Final Thoughts
This creamy Fettuccine Alfredo recipe is a must-try classic that’s as easy as it is indulgent. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a quick pasta fix, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen in minutes.
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