Description
This Best Homemade Alfredo Sauce recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and flavorful sauce perfect for drizzling over pasta or vegetables. Made with simple ingredients like butter, heavy cream, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, this sauce comes together quickly on the stovetop and can be customized with a hint of nutmeg and fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Scale
Alfredo Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely to start your creamy base.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, enhancing the sauce’s flavor.
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to warm through without boiling.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low, then gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue whisking until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg to taste. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning throughout the sauce.
- Simmer to Thicken: Let the sauce simmer gently on low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the sauce from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Serve: Use immediately by pouring over your favorite pasta or dish. Enjoy the rich, creamy Alfredo sauce at its best.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best texture and flavor; pre-grated cheese often contains additives that can affect the sauce consistency.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a little more cream or pasta water to loosen it up.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Add freshly cracked black pepper for added aroma and a slight bite.
- The nutmeg is optional but adds a subtle warm depth to the flavor profile.
- Serve immediately for best texture, as the sauce thickens further when cooled.
