What To Know
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or water to thin it out.
- Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, this sauce will impress your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Alfredo sauce without the hassle! This no-fuss, 3-ingredient recipe is the ultimate shortcut to a restaurant-quality sauce that will elevate any pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Instructions
1. Melt the butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it sizzles and turns golden brown.
2. Whisk in the cream: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the Parmesan: Slowly sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese while whisking constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Season to taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. If desired, you can also add a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder for extra flavor.
5. Serve immediately: Pour the Alfredo sauce over your favorite pasta and enjoy!
Tips for Perfection
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with milk, but the sauce will be slightly thinner.
- For a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of cream cheese.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or water to thin it out.
- Top the Alfredo sauce with fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or chives for extra freshness.
Variations
- Garlic Alfredo: Add 1-2 minced garlic cloves to the butter before whisking in the cream.
- Spinach Alfredo: Wilt 1 cup of spinach in the butter before adding the cream.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo: Add 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
- Seafood Alfredo: Add 1/2 pound of cooked shrimp, crab, or lobster to the sauce.
Pairing Suggestions
Alfredo sauce is a versatile sauce that pairs well with various pasta shapes. Here are some classic pairings:
- Fettuccine
- Penne
- Linguine
- Spaghetti
- Ravioli
The Ultimate Comfort Food
This 3-ingredient Alfredo sauce is the perfect way to create a comforting and indulgent meal. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, this sauce will impress your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.
FAQ
Q: Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making my own?
A: Yes, but homemade Alfredo sauce has a fresher, more authentic flavor.
Q: How can I store leftover Alfredo sauce?
A: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze Alfredo sauce?
A: Yes, but the sauce may separate upon thawing. To prevent this, whisk in a splash of milk or cream before reheating.
Q: What other ingredients can I add to the Alfredo sauce?
A: You can add various ingredients to customize the sauce, such as cooked bacon, mushrooms, or vegetables.
Q: Is Alfredo sauce gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you use gluten-free pasta and Parmesan cheese.
