Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe recreates the authentic Olive Garden Alfredo flavor in your own kitchen with simple ingredients. It’s easy to make, ready in under 20 minutes, and has that perfect creamy texture and cheesy taste that everyone loves. Customize with chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients
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1/2 cup unsalted butter
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1 cup heavy cream
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2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
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Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Cook Pasta:
Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water. -
Make Alfredo Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Reduce heat and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. -
Add Cheese:
Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth and creamy.
If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency. -
Combine:
Toss cooked pasta with Alfredo sauce until well coated. -
Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Cook time: 15 minutes
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Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
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Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms.
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Spice: Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
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Cheese: Use Pecorino Romano or Asiago for different flavors.
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Garlic: Increase garlic for stronger flavor or roast it beforehand.
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Veggies: Mix in steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen sauce.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
Freshly grated Parmesan is best for smooth sauce but pre-shredded works in a pinch.
How do I prevent sauce from separating?
Cook sauce gently over medium-low heat and add cheese slowly.
Can I make sauce ahead?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate; reheat gently before serving.
Is Alfredo sauce gluten-free?
Yes, but check pasta if serving gluten-free.
Can I freeze Alfredo sauce?
Freezing may alter texture; best made fresh.
How do I make it lighter?
Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Can I use butter substitutes?
Butter is best for flavor; use margarine if needed.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Add more Parmesan or cook longer to reduce.
What pasta works best?
Fettuccine is traditional, but any pasta shape works.
Can I add herbs?
Yes, fresh basil or parsley enhances flavor.
Conclusion
Olive Garden Alfredo is a creamy, cheesy classic that’s easy to make at home and perfect for a comforting meal. With simple ingredients and quick prep, this sauce brings restaurant-quality flavor to your dinner table.
Olive Garden Alfredo
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Olive Garden Alfredo is a rich, creamy, and indulgent homemade pasta sauce inspired by the classic restaurant favorite. Made with butter, heavy cream, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, this sauce delivers a velvety texture and cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with fettuccine or any pasta. Quick to prepare and customizable with proteins or veggies, it’s a comforting meal for any night.
Ingredients
-
1/2 cup unsalted butter
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
-
12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
Optional garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
-
Cook Pasta:
Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water. -
Make Alfredo Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat and cook 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. -
Add Cheese:
Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth and creamy. Add reserved pasta water gradually if sauce is too thick to reach desired consistency. -
Combine:
Toss cooked pasta with Alfredo sauce until evenly coated. -
Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture and flavor.Adjust garlic quantity to taste or roast for milder flavor.Add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.Stir in veggies such as steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
