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Fettuccine Alfredo

Fettuccine Alfredo

Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic Italian pasta dish featuring wide, flat fettuccine noodles tossed in a rich, creamy, and buttery Parmesan cheese sauce. Simple yet indulgent, this recipe is quick to prepare, uses minimal ingredients, and delivers comforting flavors perfect for a family meal or a special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz fettuccine pasta

Sauce

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic (optional, minced)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, chopped)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Fettuccine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well but reserve one cup of pasta water for later use.
  2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. If using garlic, add the minced garlic and sauté gently for about 1 minute until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture simmers gently and starts to thicken, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  3. Incorporate the Cheese: Lower the heat and gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and forms a smooth, creamy sauce without clumps.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat every strand evenly. If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
  5. Season and Serve: Finish the dish with freshly cracked black pepper and salt to taste. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve immediately for the best creamy texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the creamiest, richest sauce rather than pre-grated varieties.
  • Cook pasta just until al dente to ensure a perfect bite and avoid sogginess.
  • Reserve pasta water to help loosen and bind the sauce smoothly to the noodles.
  • Stir the sauce continuously during preparation to prevent clumping and maintain a silky texture.
  • Serve the dish immediately as Alfredo sauce thickens upon standing.

Nutrition

Keywords: Fettuccine Alfredo, Italian pasta, creamy pasta sauce, Parmesan Alfredo, easy pasta dinner, comfort food, gluten-free pasta option