When the world feels a bit too chaotic, there’s something undeniably soothing about whipping up a creamy Alfredo sauce. Just three simple ingredients—cream, butter, and Parmesan—come together like old friends at a cozy reunion. It’s like the culinary version of finding a $20 bill in your winter coat pocket; unexpected, delightful, and just what you need.
Steps
- Heat butter and cream in a large saucepan over low heat, allowing it to simmer gently for approximately 2 minutes without boiling.
- Incorporate garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning by whisking them into the mixture for about a minute, ensuring the garlic cooks through.
- Gradually add freshly grated parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
- If the sauce needs thickening, let it rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
FAQ
- What is Alfredo sauce made of?
- Alfredo sauce is traditionally a white or cream-based sauce composed of butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. To enhance the flavor, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning are often added.
- Can I use pre-grated parmesan cheese for this recipe?
- It’s best to use freshly grated parmesan cheese straight from the block to avoid a grainy texture in your sauce. Pre-grated or shaker-style parmesan is not recommended for achieving the best results.
- How long does it take to make homemade Alfredo sauce?
- Preparing homemade Alfredo sauce is quick and easy, taking about 5-10 minutes to make a batch.
- How can I thicken my Alfredo sauce if needed?
- If your sauce isn’t thick enough after adding the parmesan cheese, let it stand for 2-3 minutes before serving, as this will help it thicken up.
- Is it possible to double the Alfredo sauce recipe?
- Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled if you’re cooking for a larger group or if you want leftovers for later.
Tips
- Use Fresh Parmesan: For the smoothest sauce, opt for freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated varieties, which can make the sauce grainy.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: Keep the heat low when warming the butter and cream, allowing it to simmer gently to prevent curdling and ensure a creamy texture.
- Thicken with Time: If the sauce is thinner than desired, let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving to naturally thicken.
- Double for More: If serving a larger group or planning for leftovers, consider doubling the recipe as it scales easily without compromising flavor.
Equipment
- Large saucepan or skillet – for warming and simmering the ingredients.
- Whisk – to ensure smooth blending of the ingredients, particularly for the garlic and parmesan cheese.
- Parmesan cheese grater – for grating fresh parmesan cheese to avoid grainy texture in the sauce.
