Fettuccine Alfredo is the ultimate creamy pasta dish, combining silky ribbons of fettuccine with a decadent sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for indulgent dinners, this classic Italian-American recipe is a favorite for its luxurious flavor and simplicity.
Whether you’re treating yourself to comfort food or preparing a romantic dinner, Fettuccine Alfredo is a dish that satisfies every time. With minimal ingredients, it’s easy to make but delivers rich, restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own home.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 400g (14 oz) fettuccine pasta
- 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
- 240ml (1 cup) heavy cream
- 150g (1 1/2 cups) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2g (1/2 tsp) freshly ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Melt the butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to foam.
- Add the cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Combine with pasta: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
- Season and serve: Sprinkle with black pepper and adjust salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Fettuccine Alfredo Tips:
- Use Fresh Pasta: Fresh fettuccine provides a softer, more delicate texture than dried.
- Real Parmesan: Use freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Keep the heat low when making the sauce to prevent the cheese from separating or becoming grainy.
- Add Pasta Water: Reserve some pasta water to thin the sauce and help it adhere to the fettuccine.
- Finish Cooking in the Sauce: Toss the cooked fettuccine in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
- For a touch of elegance, serve this Alfredo Pasta with a side of Lasagna Bolognese.
Fettuccine Alfredo Variations:
- Chicken Alfredo: Add grilled or pan-seared chicken for a protein boost.
- Shrimp Alfredo: Use shrimp for a seafood variation.
- Garlic Parmesan Alfredo: Boost the flavor with roasted garlic and extra cheese.
- Spinach Alfredo: Add fresh spinach for some greenery and added texture.
- Vegan Alfredo: Replace butter and cream with plant-based substitutes like cashew cream or coconut milk.
- Mushroom Alfredo: Include sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, savory twist.
This creamy Fettuccine Alfredo is a timeless favorite that transforms simple ingredients into an elegant and indulgent pasta dish!
Craving more pasta inspiration?
- Fettuccine Alfredo: A simpler yet equally creamy delight.
- Shrimp Scampi Linguine: Perfect for seafood enthusiasts.
- Carbonara: A creamy recipe without heavy cream, packed with flavor