Creamy Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Creamy Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Introduction

There’s nothing quite as comforting and indulgent as a bowl of Creamy Alfredo Pasta. This beloved Italian-inspired dish is a celebration of simplicity — rich, velvety sauce coating tender strands of pasta, creating a harmony of buttery, cheesy goodness. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, Alfredo pasta is a timeless classic that combines elegance with heartwarming flavor. Every bite offers a smooth, creamy texture and a luxurious taste that’s both satisfying and soothing. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables, this dish always impresses.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or spaghetti

• Water for boiling

• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• ½ cup (1 stick / 115 g) unsalted butter

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• 1 ½ cups heavy cream

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional for extra flavor)

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup grated mozzarella or Romano cheese (optional for added richness)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

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• A pinch of nutmeg (optional, for a warm undertone)

Optional Additions:

• Grilled chicken breast, sliced

• Cooked shrimp

• Steamed broccoli or spinach

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

   • Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente (firm to the bite).

   • Drain, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Set aside.

2. Make the Alfredo Sauce

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   • In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

   • Add the minced garlic (if using) and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

   • Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Bring the mixture to a light simmer (do not boil).

   • Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

   • Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce

   • Add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce pan.

   • Toss well to coat every strand with the creamy Alfredo sauce.

   • If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your preferred consistency.

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   • Mix in optional ingredients such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables if desired.

4. Serve and Garnish

   • Plate the pasta while hot, ensuring a generous coating of sauce.

   • Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top for garnish.

   • Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Alfredo Pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or buttery garlic bread. For a more substantial meal, top it with grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also serve it with a glass of white wine for an elegant dinner. The smooth, cheesy sauce complements nearly any protein or vegetable, making it versatile and crowd-pleasing.

Conclusion

The Creamy Alfredo Pasta is the epitome of comfort and simplicity. With its rich butter and cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked pasta, it brings a touch of luxury to any meal. This dish proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something truly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or a romantic evening, its creamy texture and comforting flavor will make every bite unforgettable. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never look at store-bought Alfredo the same way again.