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

Close-up of pasta coated in rich homemade alfredo sauce, topped with cracked black pepper.

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You can make a rich, creamy, homemade Alfredo sauce from scratch in just 10 minutes. This simple recipe uses only a few ingredients and tastes much better than anything from a jar.

Ingredients

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  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, packed
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

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. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and fully incorporated.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
  6. Toss immediately with your favorite cooked pasta, like fettuccine, or use as a topping for chicken or vegetables.

Notes

  • For the creamiest sauce, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick upon standing, whisk in a tablespoon of warm milk or reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  • This recipe makes a perfect base for Fettuccine Alfredo Sauce.

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