Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic Italian pasta dish that’s known for its rich, creamy sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a favorite comfort food and can be made easily at home in just a few steps. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests, this creamy pasta dish will always impress. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- Fettuccine Pasta: 400g (fresh or dry)
- Butter: 1/2 cup (unsalted)
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated (plus extra for garnish)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (optional)
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Chopped Parsley: 1 tablespoon (for garnish)
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (optional, for cooking pasta)
- Water: For boiling the pasta
Instructions
- Cook the Fettuccine Pasta:
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes).
- Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
- In a large pan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. If you like a hint of garlic, add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the heavy cream to the pan and stir well. Allow it to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Keep stirring to prevent the sauce from burning.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture, stirring continuously until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Toss the Pasta:
- Add the cooked fettuccine pasta directly into the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. If needed, add a little more pasta water to ensure everything is well-coated.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the pasta is well-mixed, transfer it to serving plates. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Fettuccine Alfredo!
Tips for the Perfect Fettuccine Alfredo:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key to making a silky-smooth sauce. Pre-grated cheese tends to have anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Fettuccine should be cooked al dente, meaning it still has a slight bite to it. Overcooking can make the pasta soggy and affect the final texture of the dish.
- Customize with Add-ins: Feel free to add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or steamed vegetables to elevate the dish. Mushrooms and spinach are also great choices for added flavor and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple & Quick: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes with just a few ingredients, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
- Rich & Creamy: The combination of butter, cream, and Parmesan creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
- Versatile: Fettuccine Alfredo can be easily adapted to your preferences by adding proteins, vegetables, or herbs.
This Fettuccine Alfredo recipe brings the flavors of Italy right into your kitchen. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent, and it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy!
