Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of Olive Garden’s famous Alfredo sauce with this straightforward recipe. Perfect for pasta lovers, this sauce combines butter, cream, and cheese for a delightful dish that brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy meal for two, this Alfredo sauce is sure to impress and satisfy. Let’s dive into making this luscious sauce that pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta!
Ingredients
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the total) contains approximately 320 calories, 30g fat, 5g carbohydrates, and 8g protein. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the heavy cream to the melted butter, stirring continuously.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring.
4. Sprinkle in the garlic powder and stir to combine.
5. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Reduce the heat to low, keeping the sauce warm.
8. Cook your choice of pasta according to package instructions.
9. Drain the pasta and add it to the Alfredo sauce.
10. Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version or use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan option. Additionally, use garlic cloves instead of garlic powder for a fresher flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This Alfredo sauce pairs wonderfully with fettuccine or penne pasta. Serve alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A crisp Caesar salad and garlic bread make excellent accompaniments.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens. It is not recommended to freeze as the texture may be compromised.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid boiling the sauce to prevent separation.
– Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
– Do not add cheese too quickly; allow it to melt gradually.
– Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
– Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente for optimal texture.
Helpful Tips
– Always use unsalted butter for better control of seasoning.
– Freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor and texture compared to pre-grated.
– For a richer taste, add a pinch of nutmeg.
– Keep the sauce warm while pasta cooks for best results.
FAQs
Can I make Alfredo sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
What pasta works best with Alfredo sauce?
Fettuccine is the traditional choice, but any pasta shape can work well, including penne or rigatoni.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms make great additions to the sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
While you can freeze the sauce, the texture may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
How can I make it spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the sauce a kick.
Conclusion
With this Olive Garden Alfredo sauce recipe, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your home. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a favorite among pasta lovers. Enjoy experimenting with different pasta and pairings to make it your own!
Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the heavy cream to the melted butter, stirring continuously.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring.
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder and stir to combine.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Reduce the heat to low, keeping the sauce warm.
- Cook your choice of pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the Alfredo sauce.
- Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
Nutrition
