Homemade Alfredo Sauce Recipe: Creamy and Delicious Pasta Perfection
Rich, velvety homemade Alfredo sauce that’s smooth, creamy, and coats your favorite pasta beautifully. A classic comfort dish!
Why This Alfredo Sauce Recipe Stands Out
Nothing beats a bowl of perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a creamy homemade Alfredo sauce. It’s an indulgent, silky-smooth dish that satisfies every craving.
This recipe is incredibly easy and uses simple ingredients for an authentic Italian-inspired experience. If you’re a fan of rich, cheesy sauces, this will quickly become your go-to.
The Secret to Perfect Homemade Alfredo Sauce
A few key details make this recipe shine:
- No garlic chunks – Infuse butter with garlic flavor but remove the cloves for a smooth texture.
- Skip the cream cheese – Authentic Alfredo relies on butter, cream, and Parmesan.
- Balanced consistency – A blend of heavy cream and broth prevents the sauce from being too thick.
- Freshly grated Parmesan – This ensures a rich, nutty flavor and a smooth texture.
How to Make Homemade Alfredo Sauce
1. Start with Butter and Garlic
Melt butter over low heat, then add whole garlic cloves. Let them infuse the butter for a deep, aromatic flavor. Remove them before adding liquid to maintain a silky consistency.
2. Prepare the Pasta
Cook your favorite pasta—fettuccine or pappardelle work best. Salt the water generously for enhanced flavor.
3. Combine Cream and Broth
Add heavy cream and broth to the butter mixture. Stir continuously over low heat until it begins to thicken slightly.
4. Add Parmesan for the Perfect Texture
Whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and combined. This will create a rich, luscious sauce that coats the back of a spoon.
5. Toss with Pasta
Mix the sauce with hot pasta, letting it absorb all the creamy goodness. Serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan!
Ingredients for Alfredo Sauce
- 1/2 cup butter
- 3 whole garlic cloves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked pasta (fettuccine or pappardelle recommended)
Cooking Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pan over low heat. Add whole garlic cloves and let them infuse for about 5 minutes. Remove them before proceeding.
- Pour in heavy cream and broth, stirring continuously. Let it simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes.
- Slowly add Parmesan cheese, whisking until fully melted and smooth.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss with cooked pasta, ensuring every strand is coated in sauce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Avoid browning the garlic or butter—this can introduce bitterness.
- Use white pepper instead of black for a seamless, smooth appearance.
- Pair with proteins like shrimp, chicken, or broccoli for a full meal.
- Try different pasta shapes—Alfredo sauce pairs wonderfully with gnocchi or lasagna layers.
FAQs About Homemade Alfredo Sauce
Can I make Alfredo sauce without cream?
Yes! Traditional Alfredo uses just butter and Parmesan. However, cream adds a luxurious texture.
Why is my Alfredo sauce grainy?
Grainy texture results from overheating Parmesan or using pre-grated cheese with anti-caking agents. Use freshly grated cheese and stir over low heat.
How do I store homemade Alfredo sauce?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth to restore consistency.
Can I freeze Alfredo sauce?
Yes, but dairy-based sauces may separate. To fix, reheat slowly while whisking.
What’s the best pasta for Alfredo sauce?
Fettuccine is traditional, but egg pappardelle and even penne work wonderfully!
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