Alfredo pasta is a classic Italian dish known for its creamy sauce and comforting flavors. Follow this recipe to make it at home with ease.
Ingredients
For the sauce:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the pasta:
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- Water for boiling
- 1 teaspoon salt
Optional:
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Grated nutmeg for flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Prepare the Alfredo sauce
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring frequently to avoid scorching.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate Parmesan cheese
- Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until it melts completely.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for added depth if desired.
- Combine pasta and sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet.
- Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
- If needed, use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Serve
- Transfer the Alfredo pasta to serving plates.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Tips for Perfect Alfredo Pasta
- Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Avoid boiling the sauce; simmering preserves its creamy texture.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its peak.
Nutritional Information
(Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 25g
FAQs
1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but mix milk with a little flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
2. What protein pairs well with Alfredo pasta?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms are great options.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk.
4. Can I make Alfredo sauce ahead of time?
Yes, but reheat it gently to prevent curdling.
5. Is there a gluten-free option?
Use gluten-free pasta and check that all ingredients are gluten-free.
Alfredo pasta is versatile and easy to adapt to your taste. Try it today and elevate your home cooking.