Best Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This Best Alfredo Sauce recipe delivers a creamy, rich sauce perfect for pasta lovers. Made with butter, cream, and parmesan cheese, it’s simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you prefer it with garlic or without, this sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium to medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Omit garlic if you prefer no garlic flavor.
2. Step 2: Add the flour, salt, and black pepper to the skillet.
3. Step 3: Whisk continuously until a thick, golden paste forms, known as a “roux.” Lower the heat if needed to avoid burning.
4. Step 4: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 4-5 minutes, maintaining a gentle simmer without boiling.
5. Step 5: Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, then remove the skillet from heat.
6. Step 6: Whisk off the heat for another minute until the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if desired.
7. Step 7: Serve the Alfredo sauce over cooked pasta such as fettuccine or penne, and garnish with fresh parsley if you like.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk, but expect a thinner consistency.
• Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth texture.
• Skip the flour for a gluten-free version; the sauce will be slightly less thick but still delicious.
• Add cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal.

Storage

Store leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Alfredo sauce without garlic?

Yes, garlic is optional. Simply omit it in Step 1 if you prefer a garlic-free sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?

Cook the sauce over low to medium heat and avoid boiling, as high heat can cause the fats to separate. Whisk continuously and add cream slowly for a smooth sauce.

Best Alfredo Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 99 reviews

This classic Alfredo sauce recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and cheesy sauce perfect for coating your favorite pasta. Made with butter, garlic, cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, it’s simple to prepare and ready in just minutes. Whether you serve it with fettuccine, penne, or any pasta of your choice, this Alfredo sauce elevates any dish with indulgent flavor and smooth texture.

• Author: Rita
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Sauce Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the Butter and Garlic: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium to medium-low heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. If you prefer your Alfredo sauce without garlic, you can omit this step.
2. Add Flour and Seasonings: Stir in the flour, salt, and black pepper. This helps to thicken the sauce and build flavor.
3. Create the Roux: Whisk continuously until a thick, golden paste forms, known as a roux. Reduce heat if necessary to prevent it from burning.
4. Add the Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy whipping cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and whisking gently for about 4-5 minutes, maintaining a gentle simmer but not boiling the sauce.
5. Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and immediately remove the skillet from heat to prevent the cheese from overcooking.
6. Thicken the Sauce Off Heat: Off the heat, whisk the sauce for another minute until the sauce thickens evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt and black pepper.
7. Serve: Pour over your cooked pasta, such as fettuccine or penne. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your creamy, homemade Alfredo sauce.

Notes

• If you prefer a gluten-free version, omit the flour or substitute with a gluten-free alternative.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides the best flavor—avoid pre-grated versions which contain anti-caking agents.
• Do not boil the sauce after adding cream to prevent curdling.
• For a garlic-free variation, skip the garlic in step 1.
• This sauce is best served immediately for optimal creaminess and texture.

Keywords: Alfredo sauce, creamy Alfredo, pasta sauce, Parmesan cheese sauce, homemade Alfredo, easy Alfredo sauce