What is traditional Alfredo sauce made of?

Traditional Alfredo sauce has just three main ingredients: butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. The real Italian version is simpler than many American versions. It focuses on quality ingredients for a smooth, creamy taste.

Can I make Alfredo sauce without heavy cream?

Yes, you can use substitutes like half-and-half, whole milk, or cream cheese. These alternatives can make a delicious sauce, even if it's a bit different. For a lighter sauce, mix milk with flour to thicken it.

How long can I store homemade Alfredo sauce?

You can keep homemade Alfredo sauce in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat it gently over low heat, stirring often. If it gets too thick, add a bit of pasta water or milk.

Is Alfredo sauce gluten-free?

Traditional Alfredo sauce is gluten-free because it's made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. But, always check your ingredients, like pre-grated cheese or seasonings. If thickening with flour, use gluten-free options like cornstarch or arrowroot.

Can I freeze Alfredo sauce?

Freezing Alfredo sauce is possible, but it might change texture when thawed. The cream can separate, making it grainy. Cool it completely, store in an airtight container, and use within 1-2 months. Thaw in the fridge and whisk well when reheating to get the creamy back.

What are some popular variations of Alfredo sauce?

There are many Alfredo sauce variations. Garlic Alfredo adds garlic for extra taste. Cajun Alfredo has spicy Cajun seasoning. Chicken Alfredo includes grilled or shredded chicken. Vegan Alfredo uses plant-based ingredients like cashew cream or nutritional yeast.

What pasta works best with Alfredo sauce?

Fettuccine is the best pasta for Alfredo sauce because of its wide, flat shape. It holds the sauce well. Other shapes like linguine, pappardelle, or rigatoni also work. The pasta should have enough surface area for the sauce.

5-Ingredient Alfredo Sauce Recipe: Creamy Restaurant Magic

Name: Easy Homemade Alfredo Sauce Recipe – Creamy Restaurant-Quality in 20 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (preferably Kerrygold); 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese; 2-3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper; Pinch of nutmeg (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Description

Rich and creamy homemade alfredo sauce made with just 4 simple ingredients. This restaurant-quality sauce comes together in under 20 minutes and delivers silky smooth perfection every time. Perfect for fettuccine, chicken dishes, or any pasta creation.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup unsalted butter (preferably Kerrygold)

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

2–3 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper

Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low to medium-low heat, ensuring it doesn’t brown.

2. Slowly add heavy cream while whisking constantly to create a smooth base.

3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring continuously.

4. Gradually add freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly to prevent clumping.

5. Season with salt, white pepper, and nutmeg if desired.

6. Continue stirring until sauce reaches desired consistency (2-3 minutes).

7. Remove from heat immediately as sauce will continue to thicken.

8. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

9. Serve immediately over hot pasta, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese from a block rather than pre-grated.

Keep heat low to prevent sauce from breaking or becoming grainy.

If sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water or milk.

Sauce can be stored in refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated gently over low heat.

For vegan version, substitute with cashew cream and nutritional yeast.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Sauce
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 cup
Calories: 280
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 75mg