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Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce: Rich and Creamy at Home

A white bowl filled with fettuccine pasta generously coated in creamy olive garden alfredo sauce.

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Make the rich, creamy, and garlicky flavor of Olive Garden’s signature Alfredo sauce right in your kitchen. This easy recipe is ready fast and tastes better than takeout.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for depth)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low.
  4. Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese slowly until the sauce is smooth and fully incorporated. Continue to cook on low for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg, if using. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  6. Serve immediately over hot fettuccine or use as a dip for your favorite breadsticks.

Notes

  • For the creamiest sauce, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick upon standing, whisk in a tablespoon of milk or reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  • This sauce is perfect for making a quick weeknight Italian dinner.

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