Best Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Are you looking for the best homemade Alfredo sauce recipe? This simple and creamy sauce, made with butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese, is perfect for pasta like fettuccine. Learn how to thicken it, make it with milk, and create a delicious meal in no time. Save this recipe for an easy and flavorful dinner option that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 tablespoon flour (see notes)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or more to taste)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium to medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Whisk in the flour, salt, and black pepper, stirring constantly to create a smooth, golden roux. This should take around 2 minutes.
3. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 4-5 minutes while continuing to whisk.
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, then remove the skillet from heat.
5. Off the heat, whisk the sauce for another minute until it thickens further. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
6. Serve over your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, and top with fresh parsley for garnish if desired.

Enjoy this velvety, homemade Alfredo sauce with your favorite pasta for a classic, creamy dish!

What is Alfredo Sauce?

Alfredo sauce is a rich, creamy Italian sauce typically made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. It is known for its velvety texture and mild, cheesy flavor. Often served with pasta, such as fettuccine, this sauce can also be paired with chicken, shrimp, or vegetables. Originally, Alfredo sauce was made with just butter and Parmesan cheese, but over time, the creamier version became more popular.

How to Make Alfredo Sauce

Here’s a simple step-by-step method to make classic Alfredo sauce:

1. Melt butter: In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic (optional): Sauté 1 minced garlic clove for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Make a roux: Stir in 1 tablespoon of flour and cook for 2 minutes until a golden paste forms.
4. Pour in cream: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes.
5. Add Parmesan: Stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and combined.
6. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.

How to Thicken Alfredo Sauce

If your Alfredo sauce is too thin, you can thicken it using these methods:

• Add more cheese: Stir in extra Parmesan or even cream cheese for a thicker consistency.
• Use a roux: As in the recipe above, a roux made from butter and flour helps the sauce thicken.
• Simmer longer: Allow the sauce to reduce by cooking it a bit longer, which evaporates excess liquid.
• Cornstarch slurry: Mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce.

How to Make Alfredo Sauce with Milk

If you want a lighter Alfredo sauce, substitute heavy cream with milk. Here’s how:

1. Follow the same steps as the classic recipe but use 2 cups of whole milk instead of heavy cream.
2. To ensure a creamy texture, create a roux using 1 tablespoon of flour to help the milk thicken.
3. Cook the milk mixture until it thickens, then stir in Parmesan as usual.

Can You Freeze Creamy Alfredo Sauce?

Yes, you can freeze Alfredo sauce, but the texture may change slightly due to the dairy content. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cool the sauce: Let the Alfredo sauce cool completely.
2. Store in airtight containers: Transfer the sauce to a freezer-safe container, leaving a little room for expansion.
3. Freeze: Alfredo sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.
4. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove over low heat, whisking constantly to restore the creamy texture. If the sauce separates, adding a bit of milk or cream while whisking may help.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother and gives better flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
• Don’t boil the sauce: Keep the heat low to prevent the cream from curdling.
• Season to taste: You can add a pinch of nutmeg, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.

Storing and Reheating

• Storing: Store leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You can add a splash of cream or milk to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid using high heat, as this can cause the sauce to separate.

Serving Suggestions

Alfredo sauce pairs wonderfully with:

• Pasta: Serve over fettuccine, penne, or linguine.
• Proteins: Top grilled or sautéed chicken, shrimp, or salmon with Alfredo sauce for a hearty meal.
• Vegetables: Drizzle over steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted veggies.
• Garlic bread: Serve alongside crusty garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.

Enjoy this versatile and indulgent sauce with your favorite dishes!