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The Ultimate 20-Minute Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

A plate of fettuccine pasta generously coated in creamy Olive Garden Alfredo sauce and sprinkled with herbs.

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You can make this rich, creamy, restaurant-style Alfredo sauce at home in just 20 minutes. This copycat recipe delivers the classic garlic and Parmesan flavor you love, perfect for fettuccine or dipping breadsticks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for depth)

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. 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, pepper, and the pinch of nutmeg, if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Keep the sauce warm over very low heat, stirring frequently, until you are ready to serve over your favorite pasta, like fettuccine.

Notes

  • For the creamiest texture, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick while serving, whisk in a tablespoon of reserved pasta water or a splash more heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
  • This sauce is excellent when used as a base for chicken or shrimp Alfredo dishes.

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