Easy Alfredo Sauce

Why You’ll Love Easy Alfredo Sauce Recipe

  • Creamy and indulgent texture that feels restaurant‑quality at home

  • Uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen

  • Ready in about 15 minutes, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 1/2 cup butter

  • 2 cups heavy cream

  • 3 teaspoons minced garlic

  • 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1.5 cups freshly grated Asiago cheese

  • Salt, to taste

  • Pepper, to taste

Directions

  1. Start by preparing and cooking your pasta according to package directions if you plan to serve the Alfredo sauce with noodles. Keep the pasta hot and drained so it’s ready when the sauce is done.

  2. In a wide skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Stir as the butter melts and the garlic becomes fragrant.

  3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly so it doesn’t scorch.

  4. Add the grated Asiago and Parmesan cheeses to the cream mixture. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

  5. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

  6. Serve the sauce immediately over cooked pasta, vegetables, or proteins like chicken.

Servings and timing

  • Servings: About 8 servings (each about ½ cup of sauce)

  • Prep time: 5 minutes

  • Cook time: 10 minutes

  • Total time: Approximately 15 minutes

Variations

  • Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon for a heartier meal.

  • Use different cheeses: Swap Asiago for Romano or Fontina for a different flavor profile.

  • Herb twist: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme.

  • Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

  • Vegetable addition: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

  • Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, stirring often. If the sauce separates or becomes too thick, add a splash of cream or milk to bring it back together.

FAQs

How do I prevent the sauce from splitting when reheating?

Heat it slowly over low heat and stir constantly. Adding a little extra cream or milk can help bring the sauce back together.

Can I use half‑and‑half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can, but the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.

Can this Alfredo sauce be frozen?

You can freeze it, but the texture might change a bit when defrosted.

What pasta goes best with Alfredo sauce?

Fettuccine is traditional, but you can use any pasta shape you like.

Can I add chicken or shrimp to the sauce?

Yes — cooked chicken or shrimp are great additions.

How do I make this sauce dairy‑free?

You’d need non‑dairy alternatives for cream and cheese, but texture and flavor will differ.

What’s the difference between authentic and American Alfredo?

Authentic Italian Alfredo traditionally uses butter and Parmesan without cream, while American versions include cream for extra richness.

Is garlic necessary?

Garlic adds flavor, but you can adjust or omit it if you prefer a milder taste.

Why is my sauce too thin?

Cook it a bit longer to reduce it, or add a little more cheese to thicken.

Can I use pre‑grated cheese?

Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a smoother sauce.

Conclusion

This easy Alfredo sauce is a versatile, quick, and delicious way to elevate your pasta meals. With its creamy texture and rich flavor from simple ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or anytime you want comfort food that feels homemade and satisfying.


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Easy Alfredo Sauce

Easy Alfredo Sauce

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A quick and easy homemade Alfredo sauce recipe made with heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a creamy pasta dish ready in minutes.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Once melted, add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add the garlic powder and stir well.
  4. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Serve immediately over cooked pasta or store for later use.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not let the sauce boil after adding the cheese to avoid curdling.
  • Can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and gently reheated.
  • Perfect served with fettuccine, chicken, or shrimp.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 52g
  • Saturated Fat: 33g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 170mg
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