Indulge in the rich, creamy flavor of Olive Garden’s classic Alfredo sauce, made simple for home cooks. This luscious sauce is perfect for drizzling over your favorite pasta, creating a comforting dish that rivals any restaurant experience. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delightful Alfredo sauce that will impress your family and friends alike. Follow this recipe for a taste of Italy in the comfort of your kitchen.
Ingredients
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and white pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 5 minutes, with a cooking time of 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 450 calories, 40g fat, 3g carbohydrates, and 10g protein. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, avoiding boiling.
5. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
7. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
8. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
9. Toss the sauce with your favorite cooked pasta.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, or use a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a vegan alternative.
Serving and Pairings
Olive Garden Alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with fettuccine, but also complements grilled chicken, steamed broccoli, or shrimp. Serve it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much. Freezing is not recommended as it may change the texture.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid boiling the sauce to prevent separation.
– Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
– Whisk continuously to ensure even cooking.
– Do not add salt until the cheese is incorporated.
– Be careful with the garlic to avoid burning.
– Adjust cream thickness with pasta cooking water.
– Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Helpful Tips
– Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
– Prepare the sauce while pasta cooks for freshness.
– Experiment with adding herbs like basil or oregano.
– Serve immediately for optimal creaminess.
FAQs
Can I make Alfredo sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat gently before serving.
What pasta goes best with Alfredo sauce?
Fettuccine is the traditional choice, but any pasta like penne or rigatoni works well too.
How do I thicken my Alfredo sauce?
Add more Parmesan cheese or let it simmer longer to thicken naturally.
Can I use low-fat ingredients in this recipe?
Yes, using low-fat cream or butter will alter the taste but can make it lighter.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The sauce itself is gluten-free, but ensure your pasta is gluten-free if needed.
Conclusion
With this easy Olive Garden Alfredo sauce recipe, you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavors right at home. Perfect for any occasion, this creamy sauce is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and indulge in its rich flavors!
Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and white pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, avoiding boiling.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
- Continue to stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Toss the sauce with your favorite cooked pasta.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition
