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Classic 5-Ingredient Homemade Alfredo Sauce (Rich & Creamy)

Close-up of fettuccine noodles coated in thick homemade alfredo sauce being lifted by a fork, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

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Make a rich, creamy, restaurant-style Alfredo sauce from scratch in under 15 minutes using just five simple ingredients. This recipe avoids cream cheese for a classic, silky texture.

Ingredients

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  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low.
  4. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and completely melted. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the salt. Taste the sauce and add more salt if needed.
  6. Toss immediately with your favorite cooked pasta, such as fettuccine, or use as a topping for chicken or vegetables.

Notes

  • For the best results and smoothest sauce, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese, not pre-shredded varieties.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick as it cools, whisk in a tablespoon of warm pasta water or extra heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
  • This recipe is the base for a gourmet pasta sauce; add cooked chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.

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