Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic Italian-American pasta dish known for its rich, creamy, and comforting taste.
It is made with wide fettuccine noodles tossed in a smooth sauce of butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. This dish is loved around the world because it is simple, quick to prepare, and incredibly satisfying.
Whether you are cooking for your family, guests, or just yourself, fettuccine Alfredo is always a great choice.
Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
Fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy pasta dish with a velvety texture and a mild, cheesy flavor. The wide fettuccine noodles hold the sauce beautifully, making every bite rich and delicious.
It can be served as a main dish or as a side with grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 250 grams of fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3–4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous amount of salt to the water. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Stir occasionally so the pasta does not stick together. Once cooked, reserve about half a cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base
In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped garlic. Cook the garlic for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 3: Add the Cream
Slowly pour the heavy cream into the pan with the butter and garlic. Stir well and let it gently simmer for 3–4 minutes.
The cream will start to thicken slightly.
Keep the heat on medium-low to avoid boiling the cream.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Lower the heat and add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce has become smooth and creamy.
Add salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the pan. Toss the pasta gently in the sauce so that every strand is well coated.
If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is well combined.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top if desired. Serve the fettuccine Alfredo hot with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.]
Different Variations
- Chicken Alfredo: Add grilled or pan-fried chicken slices to the pasta.
- Shrimp Alfredo: Add sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Broccoli Alfredo: Mix in steamed broccoli for a healthier version.
- Mushroom Alfredo: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Garlic Alfredo: Increase garlic for a stronger garlic taste.
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 32 g |
| Saturated Fat | 19 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
Tips for Perfect Fettuccine Alfredo
To make the best fettuccine Alfredo, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Pre-grated cheese does not melt well and can make the sauce grainy. Keep the heat low when adding the cream and cheese to avoid curdling.
Also, do not overcook the pasta; al dente pasta gives the best texture and taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is using high heat, which can cause the sauce to separate. Another mistake is adding too much cheese at once; always add gradually and stir well.
Avoid skipping the pasta water, as it helps in adjusting the sauce consistency and makes it smoother.
Best Side Dishes to Serve
Fettuccine Alfredo pairs well with garlic bread, dinner rolls, or a fresh green salad.
You can also serve it with roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Fettuccine Alfredo is a simple yet luxurious pasta dish that you can easily make at home.
With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-style meal in your own kitchen.
Try different variations to suit your taste and make this classic recipe your own. Once you try it, it will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.