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Best Homemade Alfredo Sauce: Creamy, Rich, and Ready in 10 Minutes

A serving of fettuccine pasta generously coated in creamy homemade alfredo sauce and sprinkled with black pepper.

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Stop ordering takeout! Master the ultimate creamy, restaurant-style Homemade Alfredo Sauce in under 10 minutes with this foolproof stovetop recipe. We share the secrets to achieving a silky, non-grainy sauce every time using just a few quality ingredients.

Ingredients

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  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, packed
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

Instructions

  1. Place the butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low once simmering begins.
  4. Remove the skillet from the heat. This step is crucial for a non-grainy sauce.
  5. Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time. Continue whisking until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.
  6. Stir in the salt and pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon of reserved pasta water (if you cooked pasta) or a splash more cream to reach your desired consistency.
  8. Toss immediately with hot fettuccine pasta or serve over your preferred dish.

Notes

  • Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent the sauce from melting smoothly, leading to a grainy texture.
  • Keep the heat low when adding the cheese. High heat causes the Parmesan proteins to seize up.
  • This recipe is the secret to restaurant-style Alfredo. It is best served immediately.

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