Classic Fettuccine Alfredo

Classic Fettuccine Alfredo is a timeless Italian-American dish known for its rich, creamy sauce and delicate balance of flavors. Made with simple yet indulgent ingredients like butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is perfect for a comforting meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy – The luxurious Alfredo sauce coats every strand of fettuccine, creating a smooth, velvety texture.
• Simple Ingredients – With just a handful of kitchen staples, you can create an authentic restaurant-quality dish.
• Versatile – This recipe pairs wonderfully with proteins like grilled or breaded chicken, shrimp, or even vegetables. It’s perfect for those looking for chicken with fettuccine noodles or a homemade chicken fettuccine Alfredo option.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Sauce – In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Combine the Ingredients – Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Toss the Pasta – Add the cooked fettuccine to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
5. Serve – Plate immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo – Add grilled or breaded chicken fettuccine Alfredo style for a heartier meal.
• Baked Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe – Combine the pasta and sauce in a baking dish, top with extra Parmesan and breadcrumbs, and bake until golden.
• One Pot Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo – Cook everything in one pot for a simpler cleanup.
• Vegetable Addition – Include mushrooms, broccoli, or spinach for extra texture and nutrients.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftover fettuccine Alfredo in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Warm gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

How do I keep the Alfredo sauce from getting too thick?

If the sauce becomes too thick, add some reserved pasta water or a splash of milk to thin it out while stirring.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and creates a smoother sauce, but pre-grated can be used in a pinch.

What protein pairs well with fettuccine Alfredo?

Chicken, shrimp, or even salmon complement this dish perfectly. Try a chicken Alfredo sauce recipe variation for added protein.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Fettuccine Alfredo is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and refrigerate it separately. Reheat gently before tossing with cooked pasta.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.

What can I serve with fettuccine Alfredo?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables make great side dishes.

Can I add mushrooms to this recipe?

Yes, sautéed mushrooms add depth of flavor and pair well with Alfredo sauce. Consider trying a chicken zucchini mushroom pasta variation.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Cook over low heat and avoid overheating. Stir continuously when adding Parmesan to help it blend smoothly.

Can I freeze fettuccine Alfredo?

Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

What’s the best pasta shape for Alfredo sauce?

Fettuccine is traditional, but linguine or pappardelle work well too.

Conclusion

Classic Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich, creamy, and satisfying pasta dish that never goes out of style. Whether you enjoy it as is or enhance it with chicken, vegetables, or a baked chicken fettuccine Alfredo recipe, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it for your next dinner and experience its comforting flavors!