Velvety Comfort on Your Plate…
Few dishes evoke the comfort and indulgence of a rich, creamy Alfredo Pasta.
Originating from Italy and beloved worldwide, this dish combines simple ingredients to create an exquisite flavor experience.
Whether you’re preparing a special meal for loved ones or treating yourself to a gourmet night in, Alfredo Pasta promises to deliver a satisfying and memorable dining experience.
Skill Level – Intermediate
While the ingredients and steps are straightforward, achieving the perfect creamy texture requires a bit of finesse and attention to detail. With a little practice, anyone can master this classic Italian dish.
Health Benefits
Despite its indulgent nature, Alfredo Pasta can be considered healthy when prepared with quality ingredients.
The primary health benefits come from the calcium and protein in the cheese and cream, and if you choose whole grain pasta, you’ll also gain fiber and additional nutrients.
Creamy Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Prep and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or your choice of pasta
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Cooking
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the butter and garlic.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Allow the cream mixture to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Season:
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley.
Recipe Shortcuts
- Pre-Minced Garlic: Use pre-minced garlic from a jar to save time.
- Pre-Grated Cheese: Buy pre-grated Parmesan cheese to skip the grating step.
- Ready-Made Alfredo Sauce: In a pinch, use a high-quality store-bought Alfredo sauce to save cooking time.
Creamy Alfredo Pasta – Tips for Perfection
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest butter, cream, and cheese for the best flavor.
- Consistent Heat: Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic or curdling the cream.
- Toss Pasta Immediately: Combine the pasta with the sauce right after draining to ensure it absorbs the sauce well.
Optional Ingredients
- Protein Additions: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or pancetta.
- Vegetable Additions: Steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme for additional flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
- Pair with a glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay.
Nutrient Information (per serving)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Saving Leftovers
- Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Origin and Folklore
Alfredo sauce traces its roots back to Rome, Italy, where it was first created by Alfredo di Lelio in the early 20th century.
Originally made to please his pregnant wife, Alfredo’s simple yet rich pasta dish quickly became a hit among locals and tourists alike.
Hollywood stars who visited Rome popularized it further, and it has since become a staple in Italian-American cuisine.
Creamy Alfredo Pasta
Alfredo Pasta is the epitome of Italian comfort food, blending creamy, cheesy goodness with the perfect al dente pasta.
Whether you’re an intermediate cook looking to impress or simply craving a deliciously rich meal, this recipe will not disappoint.