Fettuccine Alfredo is the perfect comforting pasta dish, rich and creamy with real ingredients that come together in just 20 minutes. No jarred sauces here—just fresh cream, Parmesan, and fettuccine tossed in a silky, cheesy sauce. A quick and indulgent meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight and indulgent enough for date night!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Fettuccine Alfredo is incredibly creamy and cheesy, made with simple, fresh ingredients. It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it a great choice for a fast weeknight dinner. The sauce is smooth and silky, with freshly grated Parmesan adding richness and depth. Plus, this recipe doesn’t require any jarred sauce, so you’ll get the full, authentic flavor of homemade Alfredo. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this dish is bound to be a hit with family and friends.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fettuccine (uncooked)

• 6 tablespoons butter (unsalted)

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 2 cups Parmesan cheese (grated)

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and generously salt it. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until aromatic, then season with salt, pepper, and oregano.

3. Pour in the heavy cream, stir consistently, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan, whisking slowly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

5. Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet and toss well to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

6. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add-ins: To customize your dish, try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for added protein and flavor.

• Vegetarian: Skip any meat additions and serve the Fettuccine Alfredo as a rich vegetarian dish.

• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Fettuccine Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may cause the sauce to separate.

FAQs

1. Can I make Fettuccine Alfredo without heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Adding extra Parmesan or a spoonful of cream cheese can help thicken the sauce if needed.

2. Why did my sauce turn out grainy?

Grainy sauce usually happens if the heat was too high when adding the Parmesan, or if the cheese was added all at once. Make sure to use low heat and add the cheese slowly while stirring.

3. Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

While pre-shredded cheese can be convenient, it doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated Parmesan. For the best results, grate your own cheese.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, add extra Parmesan cheese or a spoonful of cream cheese to thicken it. Alternatively, you can simmer the sauce for a few more minutes to reduce it.

5. How do I reheat leftover Fettuccine Alfredo?

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce smooth. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

6. Can I use another type of pasta?

While fettuccine is the classic choice, you can substitute with other wide pasta shapes like pappardelle. Spaghetti is also an option, though it’s not ideal for holding the sauce as well.

7. Can I freeze Fettuccine Alfredo?

It’s not recommended to freeze Fettuccine Alfredo as the sauce may separate upon reheating. However, you can freeze the sauce separately and reheat it with fresh pasta.

8. What can I serve with Fettuccine Alfredo?

Pair your Fettuccine Alfredo with a side of garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

9. Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe includes a small amount of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. If you like more spice, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

10. Can I use a different type of cheese?

For a slightly different flavor, try using Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan. It will add a sharper, more tangy taste to the sauce.

Conclusion

This Fettuccine Alfredo recipe is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and indulgent, yet incredibly easy to prepare. With real ingredients and no shortcuts, it’s a dish that tastes just as good as it looks. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will never disappoint. So grab your ingredients and enjoy a plate of this delicious homemade pasta tonight!

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