Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Catch the aroma of thick cream swirling around tender garlic, perfectly blended with nutty Parmesan. This olive garden alfredo sauce recipe transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a culinary masterpiece that even your most discerning friends will rave about. Picture this: you’re twirling your fork, each bite bringing velvety satisfaction that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

I fondly remember the first time I attempted this dish; my kitchen was a chaotic blend of pots and pans while my family watched in anticipation. The moment they took their first bite, it was as if I had opened the doors to a magical Italian bistro right at home.

Every time I’ve served this alfredo sauce, the reactions have been priceless – people practically licking their plates clean and asking for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Unsalted Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control of saltiness; it adds richness without overpowering flavors.
• Fresh Garlic: Don’t skimp on fresh garlic; its aroma enhances the dish significantly.
• Heavy Cream: This ingredient is crucial for achieving that luscious texture; don’t substitute with low-fat options.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan ensures optimal melting and flavor; pre-grated cheese can be dry and clumpy.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Pasta of Choice: Fettuccine is traditional but feel free to get creative with your favorite type.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Get Your Tools Ready: Gather all your ingredients and tools; you’ll need a large saucepan, whisk, wooden spoon, and measuring cups.

Start by melting butter in your saucepan over medium heat until it bubbles gently. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute—without browning it. You want that sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen.

Add Cream Blissfully: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously. Allow it to simmer gently for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened—you’re looking for a luxurious consistency here.

Cheesy Delight Time: Gradually stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese while keeping the mixture on low heat. Stir until melted and smooth—this is where magic happens! Add salt and pepper to taste.

Toss It All Together: Cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain it but reserve a cup of starchy water for later use. Combine your pasta with the creamy alfredo sauce in the saucepan until well-coated.

Finishing Touches: If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency—thicker or creamier depending on preference! Serve hot with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top for an impressive presentation.

With each step of this olive garden alfredo sauce recipe unfolding before you, you’ll find yourself savoring not just deliciousness but also the joy of cooking something extraordinary right at home!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by melting your butter over medium heat, then add minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, letting it simmer before whisking in Parmesan cheese until creamy perfection emerges.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or toss in some sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra color and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of cream to restore its creamy texture.

Cooking this dish reminds me of family dinners where laughter and good food went hand in hand, creating memories that last longer than any meal could.

FAQ

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream for my olive garden alfredo sauce recipe?

Yes, but it may result in a thinner sauce with less richness.

What pasta pairs best with olive garden alfredo sauce recipe?

Fettuccine is traditional, but any pasta you love works wonderfully.

Can I freeze my olive garden alfredo sauce recipe?

While possible, it may change texture when thawed due to dairy separation.

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Creamy Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe

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Indulge in this rich and creamy Olive Garden-style Alfredo sauce that elevates any pasta dish to gourmet status in just under 30 minutes.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice

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Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously. Allow it to simmer gently for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese while keeping the mixture on low heat. Stir until melted and smooth; season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and reserve a cup of starchy water.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with the Alfredo sauce in the saucepan, mixing well until coated. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

•  For added flavor, consider swapping out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently with a splash of cream.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Pasta
• Method: Sauce
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 28g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 13g
• Cholesterol: 100mg