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Ultimate 10-Minute Silky Homemade Alfredo Sauce (No Grainy Bits)

A serving of fettuccine pasta generously coated in rich homemade alfredo sauce and topped with black pepper.
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Stop ordering takeout. Master this foolproof stovetop recipe for rich, restaurant-style Homemade Alfredo Sauce in under 10 minutes. You get a silky, non-grainy sauce using simple, quality ingredients.

Ingredients

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  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (do not use pre-shredded)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Let the butter melt completely.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Cook for about 30 seconds until you smell the garlic; do not let it brown.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low once simmering begins.
  4. Remove the pan from the heat. This step is key to preventing graininess.
  5. Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.
  6. Stir in the salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of reserved pasta water or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
  8. Toss immediately with hot, cooked fettuccine or use as a creamy pasta sauce for chicken or shrimp.

Notes

  • Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting and cause graininess.
  • To keep the sauce silky, never let it boil once the cheese is added. Keep the heat low or remove it from the burner entirely while incorporating the cheese.
  • This recipe makes a rich comfort food base. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of the starchy water you cooked your pasta in.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumdrizzle.com/homemade-alfredo-sauce/