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The Best 10-Minute Homemade Alfredo Sauce: Rich, Creamy & Easy

A close-up of fettuccine pasta coated in rich homemade alfredo sauce, topped with grated Parmesan and black pepper.

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Learn how to make a rich, creamy, and easy homemade Alfredo sauce from scratch in just 10 minutes. This simple pasta topping uses classic ingredients for a flavor superior to jarred versions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low.
  4. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, a little at a time, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Toss immediately with your favorite cooked pasta, like fettuccine, or use as a rich creamy sauce for other dishes.

Notes

  • For an even richer sauce, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
  • If the sauce thickens too much while sitting, whisk in a splash of warm milk or reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  • This recipe makes a classic, simple pasta topping; for a variation, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of white pepper.

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