Why You’ll Love Homemade Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Alfredo sauce from scratch tastes far better than anything from a jar. It’s rich, comforting, and creamy without being overly complicated. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner night or wanting something special, this sauce brings restaurant‑style flavor to your home kitchen with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/8 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
12 oz fettuccine (optional, for serving)
Directions
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions if serving with pasta. Drain and set aside.
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In a saucepan over low‑medium heat, melt the butter.
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Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and heat gently.
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Add the minced garlic and gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve immediately over pasta or enjoy as desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: About 6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Garlic lovers: Add extra minced garlic for a bolder flavor.
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Spicy Alfredo: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
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Herb Alfredo: Stir in fresh chopped parsley or basil at the end.
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Protein addition: Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. When reheating, warm gently on low heat and stir frequently to keep it smooth.
FAQs
How long does Alfredo sauce last in the fridge?
Homemade Alfredo sauce will last about 3–4 days when stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Can I freeze Alfredo sauce?
Yes — you can freeze Alfredo sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Why did my sauce separate?
Sauce can separate if it gets too hot too quickly or if the heat is too high. Heating slowly and stirring constantly helps keep it smooth.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. You may need a thickener like flour or cornstarch if using milk.
Is Alfredo sauce authentic Italian?
Original Italian Alfredo (Fettuccine al Burro) traditionally uses just butter, cheese, and pasta water, but American versions often include cream.
What cheese is best for Alfredo sauce?
Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best texture and flavor. Pre‑shredded cheese can lead to a grainy sauce.
Can I add other cheeses?
Yes, adding Pecorino Romano or Asiago can give extra depth of flavor.
What pasta pairs best with Alfredo?
Fettuccine is classic, but you can use any pasta you enjoy.
Can I make Alfredo without garlic?
Yes, garlic is optional — omit it for a milder sauce.
How do I keep the sauce creamy when reheating?
Warm it slowly on low heat and add a splash of cream or milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
This homemade Alfredo sauce is simple to make with pantry staples and turns everyday pasta into something special. With its rich, creamy texture and customizable flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
