Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Alfredo sauce is super easy to make and far better than anything from a jar. It’s creamy, garlicky, and loaded with Parmesan, creating a smooth and flavorful sauce that clings perfectly to pasta. Plus, it’s versatile—use it for fettuccine Alfredo, as a dip, or over roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- ½ cup butter
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
1. Melt Butter and Cream
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add Garlic and Seasoning
- Whisk in the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for one minute to release the flavors.
3. Stir in Parmesan Cheese
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until it’s melted and smooth.
4. Serve Immediately
- Remove from heat and serve immediately over pasta, chicken, or vegetables.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 2 cups (enough for 4-6 servings of pasta)
- Preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Lighter Version: Swap half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce calories.
- Extra Garlic: If you love garlic, add an extra teaspoon for more flavor.
- Spicy Alfredo: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Cheese Mix: Use Romano or Asiago cheese for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm on low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if needed. Avoid microwaving, as it can separate.
FAQs
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and creates a smoother sauce. Pre-grated cheese can make the sauce grainy.
How can I thicken my Alfredo sauce?
Let it simmer for a few extra minutes or add 1 tablespoon of cream cheese for a thicker texture.
Can I freeze Alfredo sauce?
Alfredo sauce does not freeze well due to the dairy content. It’s best to make fresh batches.
What can I serve this sauce with?
Try it over fettuccine, grilled chicken, shrimp, steamed broccoli, or as a pizza sauce.
How do I prevent the sauce from clumping?
Whisk constantly when adding Parmesan and keep the heat low to prevent separation.
Can I make this sauce dairy-free?
Yes! Use vegan butter, coconut cream, and dairy-free Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes! There are no flour or thickeners, making it naturally gluten-free.
What pasta works best with Alfredo sauce?
Fettuccine is traditional, but it works well with penne, linguine, or even gnocchi.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best fresh. If making ahead, store it in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of cream.
What’s the best way to make it richer?
For an even richer sauce, add an extra tablespoon of butter or mix in a little cream cheese.
Conclusion
This Homemade Alfredo Sauce is creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible. With its quick and easy preparation, it’s perfect for a last-minute pasta dish, a dip, or even as a topping for grilled meats. Once you try this made-from-scratch version, you’ll never go back to store-bought Alfredo again!
Homemade Alfredo Sauce
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 Servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Homemade Alfredo Sauce is rich, creamy, and packed with Parmesan cheese flavor. Made in just 10 minutes with butter, heavy cream, and garlic, this easy Alfredo sauce is perfect for pasta, chicken, and vegetables. Say goodbye to store-bought sauce and enjoy this homemade classic!
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Melt Butter & Cream: In a large skillet, melt butter over low heat. Add heavy cream and simmer for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Garlic & Seasoning: Whisk in garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in Parmesan: Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
- Serve Immediately: Remove from heat and serve over pasta, chicken, or vegetables.
Notes
- Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half for a lower-calorie option.
- Spicy Alfredo: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Cheese Blend: Use Romano or Asiago cheese for a flavor twist.
- Extra Garlic: Add an extra teaspoon for a stronger garlic taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
