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Creamy Alfredo Pasta

Creamy Alfredo Pasta

Creamy Alfredo Pasta is a classic Italian dish featuring tender fettuccine pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Perfect for any meal, this comforting and indulgent recipe is simple to prepare, versatile, and loved by kids and adults alike. Ideal for casual dinners or special occasions, it delivers smooth texture and satisfying flavor with minimal ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving one cup of pasta water for later use.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute.
  3. Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously as it begins to warm and thicken, allowing the sauce to develop its signature richness.
  4. Incorporate Parmesan: Slowly add freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until it melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and glossy.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, mixing thoroughly to coat each strand evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  6. Season and Serve: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy maximum creaminess and flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best melting texture and authentic flavor.
  • Cook pasta al dente to ensure it holds the sauce well and avoids mushiness.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust and control the thickness of the sauce perfectly.
  • Keep the sauce warm over low heat to prevent separation or curdling.
  • Use fresh minced garlic rather than garlic powder for a brighter, more aromatic sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Alfredo, Creamy Pasta, Fettuccine, Italian, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Meal