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.
Author:sophia collins
Prep Time:5 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:20 min
Yield:About 2 cups sauce 1x
Category:Sauce
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
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
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
Pour in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low.
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.
Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg, if using. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
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.