Description
This creamy, classic Fettuccine Alfredo is a quick and comforting Italian pasta dish featuring a luscious sauce made from butter, heavy cream, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta
Sauce
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (sliced into pats)
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 garlic clove (grated)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Prepare the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.
- Make the sauce: In a large skillet over low heat, melt the butter. While whisking, gradually pour in the heavy cream. Add the grated garlic and sea salt, cooking and whisking occasionally for 5 to 8 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to thoroughly coat with the sauce. Add the remaining Parmesan cheese and toss again until it melts fully into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually (about ½ cup) to reach desired consistency.
- Season and garnish: Adjust seasoning with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency without watering down flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and melting texture.
- Garlic can be adjusted or omitted to suit taste preferences.
- Serve immediately, as Alfredo sauce thickens upon standing.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but sauce will be less rich.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
