Description
This Rich and Creamy Homemade Alfredo Sauce is a classic Italian-inspired recipe that combines butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to create a smooth and indulgent sauce. Perfect for serving over pasta or grilled proteins, it is quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients for a luxurious result.
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 gently until fully melted and warm.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, taking care not to let it brown or burn.
- Add Heavy Cream: Reduce the heat to low, then slowly stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes to allow the cream to thicken slightly.
- Whisk in Parmesan: 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 an optional pinch of nutmeg, stirring well to combine all the flavors.
- Serve Immediately: Remove the sauce from heat and serve immediately over hot cooked pasta or your choice of protein to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated to ensure smooth melting and better flavor.
- Be careful not to overheat or boil the sauce as it can cause it to separate.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Adding fresh parsley or basil as a garnish can enhance flavor and presentation.
- This sauce is best served immediately; if you need to reheat, do so gently over low heat while stirring.
