Description
This rich and creamy homemade Alfredo sauce is a classic Italian favorite, perfect for drizzling over your favorite pasta or protein. Made with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, it’s a simple yet indulgent sauce that comes together quickly in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Alfredo Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter carefully, ensuring it does not brown.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Add Heavy Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and develop flavor.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Season Sauce: Season the sauce with salt, ground black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired, mixing thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Serve Immediately: Remove the sauce from heat and serve immediately over hot pasta or your choice of protein for a decadent meal.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, simmer the cream a bit longer before adding the cheese.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg carefully as it can overpower the sauce if used excessively.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese ensures the best flavor and smooth texture.
- This sauce is best served fresh and warm as it can thicken upon standing.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
