Name: Creamy Olive Garden Alfredo Copycat Recipe
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

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I enjoy how this creamy Alfredo sauce comes together with just a few simple ingredients, creating a rich and comforting dish that tastes just like a restaurant favorite. The silky texture and deep Parmesan flavor make it a recipe I return to whenever I want something indulgent and satisfying. Creamy Olive Garden Alfredo Copycat Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate that this Alfredo comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy days when I still crave something delicious. I love how the sauce becomes velvety without needing complicated steps, and I find that its classic, familiar flavor makes everyone at the table happy. I also enjoy how easy it is to pair this sauce with any pasta or protein I have on hand.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

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

Directions

I melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
I pour in the heavy cream and let the mixture gently simmer for 3–4 minutes while stirring.
I reduce the heat to low and slowly add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it fully melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
I remove the sauce from heat and toss it with cooked pasta of my choice, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
I serve it immediately while the sauce is at its creamiest.

Servings And Timing

I find that this recipe makes about 2 to 3 servings, depending on portion size.
Cooking time is typically around 10 minutes from start to finish, making it a fast and convenient dish when I want something homemade and comforting.

Variations

I like to add a pinch of garlic powder or sauté minced garlic in the butter for a deeper flavor.
Sometimes I stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or broccoli for a heartier meal.
I also enjoy using a mix of Parmesan and Romano cheese when I want a sharper, richer taste.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When reheating, I warm it gently on the stove over low heat while adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the smooth consistency. I avoid high heat because it can cause the sauce to separate.

FAQs

How do I keep the Alfredo sauce from separating?

I keep the heat low and add the cheese gradually so the sauce stays smooth.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?

I prefer freshly grated Parmesan because it melts better and gives the sauce a creamier texture.

What pasta works best with this Alfredo sauce?

I like using fettuccine, but I find that any pasta shape pairs well with this sauce.

Can I make this recipe lighter?

I sometimes replace part of the heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce becomes slightly less rich.

Can I freeze Alfredo sauce?

I generally don’t freeze it because cream-based sauces can turn grainy once thawed.

Conclusion

I love how this simple Alfredo recipe delivers such rich and comforting flavor using only a few staple ingredients. It comes together quickly, pairs beautifully with many dishes, and always satisfies my craving for creamy pasta. It’s a recipe I reach for whenever I want something easy, indulgent, and reliably delicious.