Olive Garden Alfredo

This creamy Alfredo pasta is inspired by the classic Olive Garden favorite. It features tender fettuccine coated in a rich, buttery Parmesan cream sauce that feels indulgent yet simple enough to make at home. With just a few ingredients, you can recreate a restaurant-style pasta that’s comforting, smooth, and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe comes together quickly with minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients. The sauce is luxuriously creamy without being complicated, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It’s a versatile base that pairs beautifully with vegetables or halal proteins, and it delivers that familiar, comforting Alfredo taste everyone loves.

Ingredients

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

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter completely, making sure it does not brown.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Allow the mixture to heat for 3 to 4 minutes until warm and slightly thickened.
4. Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
5. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.
6. Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce and toss until the pasta is evenly coated.
7. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Servings and timing

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

Variations

You can add sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli for extra texture and flavor. For a richer taste, stir in an extra 2 tablespoons of butter at the end. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a small splash of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Alfredo pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little milk or cream to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Whole milk works better than low-fat options.

Why is my Alfredo sauce grainy?

Graininess usually happens when the heat is too high or the cheese is added too quickly. Keep the heat low and stir constantly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the fettuccine with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

What type of Parmesan cheese works best?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly and gives the best flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Alfredo sauce is best fresh, but you can prepare it a few hours ahead and gently reheat before serving.

How do I thicken Alfredo sauce?

Let the sauce simmer gently for a few extra minutes or add a bit more Parmesan cheese.

How do I thin Alfredo sauce?

Add a small amount of warm milk, cream, or pasta water and stir until smooth.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild and creamy flavor makes it appealing to kids.

Can I freeze Alfredo sauce?

Freezing is not recommended as the cream-based sauce may separate when thawed.

What pasta shapes work besides fettuccine?

Linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne work well with this Alfredo sauce.

Conclusion

This homemade Olive Garden–style Alfredo is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings classic comfort food to your own kitchen. Creamy, smooth, and full of flavor, it’s an easy recipe you’ll come back to whenever you’re craving a rich and comforting pasta meal.

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