How to Make Alfredo Sauce: 12 Steps
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
To make Alfredo sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: minced garlic, chopped parsley
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Be careful not to let it brown or burn.
Step 3: Add Optional Ingredients
If you’d like, you can add some minced garlic to the melted butter. Cook it for about a minute until it’s fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Pour in the Heavy Cream
Slowly pour the heavy cream into the saucepan with the melted butter, stirring constantly to combine.
Step 5: Heat the Mixture
Continue heating the butter and cream mixture until it starts to simmer. Keep stirring so that it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
Step 6: Reduce Heat and Simmer
Reduce heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for about five minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 7: Gradually Add Parmesan Cheese
Add Parmesan cheese gradually to the saucepan, stirring constantly as you do so. This will help ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
Step 8: Season with Salt and Pepper
Add salt and pepper to taste. Remember that Parmesan cheese is quite salty already, so add just enough seasoning without making it overly salty.
Step 9: Thicken Sauce (Optional)
If your Alfredo sauce is still too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by adding a slurry made from cornstarch and water or using a flour-based roux.
Step 10: Cook Pasta (Optional)
While you’re making the Alfredo sauce, cook your favorite pasta according to its package instructions. You can use fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti.
Step 11: Combine Sauce and Pasta
Once your pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the Alfredo sauce. Toss it together until the pasta is evenly coated.
Step 12: Garnish and Serve
Finally, garnish the dish with some chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade Alfredo sauce with your favorite pasta or other dishes!