Fettuccine Alfredo is the epitome of comfort food. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender pasta, this dish brings warmth and joy to any dining table. The combination of silky fettuccine, butter, and cheese creates a symphony of flavors that is undeniably tempting. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic that never goes out of style. Today, we’ll walk you through this delightful recipe, ensuring you can whip it up with ease.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Fettuccine Alfredo recipe is not just delicious; it’s incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. The creamy sauce clings perfectly to the noodles, making every bite a little piece of heaven. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various proteins and vegetables, making it a dish you’ll want to keep in your repertoire.

Ingredients at a Glance

1 lb fettuccine
1 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Pinch grated nutmeg
1 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Large Pot: For boiling the fettuccine.
Skillet: To make the creamy sauce.
Wooden Spoon: For stirring.
Grater: To grate the cheese.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements.

Fettuccine Alfredo in Steps

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Add Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic and butter. Let this simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Add the salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of grated nutmeg to the sauce. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Continue to toss until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and luscious.

Health-Conscious Tweaks

Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
Use whole wheat fettuccine for added fiber.
Incorporate vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients.
Try using nutritional yeast in place of cheese for a dairy-free option.

Don’t Do This

When making Fettuccine Alfredo, avoid boiling the pasta too long; it should be al dente to hold its shape and texture. Additionally, do not skimp on the cheese; it’s essential for achieving that classic Alfredo flavor. Lastly, be cautious with the heat when making the sauce; high temperatures can cause the cream to curdle.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Leftover Fettuccine Alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. If you want to freeze it, be aware that the texture may change slightly. It’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta and consume it within 1 month for optimal flavor.

Keep Cooking

See You at the Table

Indulging in a plate of Fettuccine Alfredo is an experience that delights the senses and warms the heart. From the creamy sauce to the perfectly cooked pasta, every bite is a reminder of the joys of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones. This dish is not only a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients but also a celebration of comfort and satisfaction. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the deliciousness that is Fettuccine Alfredo. Enjoy!

Share on Pinterest

Fettuccine Alfredo

This Fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 lb fettuccine
1 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
2 cloves garlic minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Pinch grated nutmeg
1 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese

Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Wooden spoon
Grater
Measuring cups and spoons

Method

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic and butter. Let this simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Add the salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of grated nutmeg to the sauce. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors.
Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Continue to toss until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and luscious.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Fettuccine Alfredo

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

Ingredients at a Glance

Kitchen Gear Checklist