How to Make the Best Alfredo Sauce: A Simple 7-Ingredient Recipe
Looking for a rich, creamy, and satisfying Alfredo sauce that pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta? This easy homemade Alfredo sauce recipe is loaded with butter, Parmesan, and garlic, delivering that comforting flavor you crave.
Ingredients for Alfredo Sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper
- ½ cup butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 ½ cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ cup flour
Instructions for Alfredo Sauce
Step 1: Make a Roux
In a large skillet, melt ½ cup butter over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Gradually whisk in ½ cup flour, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t brown.
Step 2: Add the Cream
Slowly whisk in 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 cup of half and half until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Continue stirring over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Season
Stir in ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon white pepper to season the sauce.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan
Remove the skillet from heat and gradually stir in 1 ½ cups of grated Parmesan until it melts completely into the sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, it’s ready to pour over your favorite pasta! Serve immediately and garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.
Tips for Perfect Alfredo Sauce
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese can result in a grainy texture. For the creamiest sauce, always use freshly grated Parmesan.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or more cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Add Herbs: For added flavor, sprinkle in fresh parsley or a dash of nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
This Alfredo sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Fettuccine Alfredo: Toss the sauce with fettuccine noodles for a classic dish.
- Chicken Alfredo: Serve with grilled or baked chicken breasts for a heartier meal.
- Vegetables: Use it as a sauce for roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
- Seafood: Add shrimp or scallops for a delicious seafood Alfredo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Milk Instead of Cream?
Yes, you can substitute milk for a lighter sauce, but keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as rich or thick as one made with heavy cream.
Can I Freeze Alfredo Sauce?
Alfredo sauce can be frozen, but due to the dairy content, it may separate when reheated. To prevent this, reheat the sauce slowly and stir often.
How Long Does Alfredo Sauce Last?
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Final Thoughts
This easy homemade Alfredo sauce is creamy, delicious, and perfect for a variety of dishes. Whether you serve it over pasta, veggies, or protein, it’s sure to be a hit! Make it once, and you’ll never go back to store-bought.
Alfredo Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 1/2 cups parmesan cheese grated
- 1/2 cup flour
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt ½ cup butter over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Gradually whisk in ½ cup flour, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t brown.
- Slowly whisk in 2 cups of heavy cream and 1 cup of half and half until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Continue stirring over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon white pepper to season the sauce.
- Remove the skillet from heat and gradually stir in 1 ½ cups of grated Parmesan until it melts completely into the sauce.
- Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, it's ready to pour over your favorite pasta!