Description
This Homemade Alfredo Sauce is a rich and creamy Italian classic made from butter, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, enhanced with garlic and a hint of nutmeg. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect sauce to elevate your pasta dishes with its smooth texture and flavorful savory taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Alfredo Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter completely to create a smooth base for the sauce.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Add Heavy Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly to combine the ingredients evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to heat through without boiling.
- Incorporate the Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until it melts fully, creating a thick and creamy sauce.
- Season the Sauce: Add salt, ground black pepper, and the optional ground nutmeg. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat, garnish the Alfredo sauce with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately over your favorite pasta or dish.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best melting and richest flavor.
- Do not let the cream boil; keep it at a gentle simmer to prevent curdling.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and consistency by adding more cheese or cream if needed.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half but expect a thinner sauce.
- This sauce is best served fresh; it may thicken upon cooling but can be gently reheated with a splash of cream or milk.
