If you're looking to make your own pasta sauce, this White Alfredo Sauce is just the ticket. I remember the first time my son, Jake, helped me in the kitchen. We made this creamy sauce together, and he was so proud to stir the pot. It’s a simple recipe that brings the family together, and it’s perfect for any pasta dish.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s creamy and delicious, making every bite a treat.
- You can whip it up in under 30 minutes.
- It’s a versatile sauce that pairs well with various pasta types.
- You can customize it with your favorite ingredients.
Pure Comfort
There’s something about a rich, creamy sauce that just feels like a warm hug. This White Alfredo Sauce is pure comfort food, perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.
What You Need
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick) – Use for a rich base.
- 1 cup 1 cup heavy cream – For that creamy texture.
- 1 cup 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated is best.
- 2 cloves 2 cloves garlic, minced – For flavor; can substitute with garlic powder.
- to taste Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust based on preference.
Time to Cook
Prep: 5 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes | Total: 20 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can make it ahead and reheat gently.
Steps to Make It
- Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. As it melts, you’ll notice a lovely aroma filling your kitchen. Keep stirring until it’s completely melted and bubbly, about 2 minutes.
- Next, add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not browned. This step adds a delicious depth of flavor to your sauce.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir continuously to combine everything well. You’ll see the sauce start to thicken slightly after about 3-4 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a quick taste test to ensure it’s just right. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
- Once the sauce is ready, remove it from the heat. Serve it immediately over your favorite pasta. The sauce should coat the pasta beautifully, creating a rich and creamy dish.
Make It Perfect
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- If you want to add a twist, consider mixing in some cooked spinach or mushrooms.
- Always use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- If the sauce thickens too much, just add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
Mix It Up
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Mix in some herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness.
- Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for a unique flavor twist.
Perfect Partners
- Pair this sauce with fettuccine for a classic Alfredo dish.
- It also works well with gnocchi or tortellini.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad.
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FAQs
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead and reheat it gently on the stove.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze White Alfredo Sauce?
Yes, but it may change texture when thawed. Reheat slowly and whisk to combine.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
You can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
You can add more cheese or let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken.
Conclusion
This White Alfredo Sauce is a delightful addition to your homemade pasta repertoire. It's simple to make and incredibly satisfying. Give it a try, and I bet it will become a family favorite just like it did for us!
White Alfredo Sauce for Creamy Homemade Pasta
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Ingredients
Main
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter Use for a rich base
- 1 cup heavy cream For creamy texture
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is best
- 2 cloves garlic minced, can substitute with garlic powder
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust based on preference
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until completely melted and bubbly, about 2 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste and stir well.
- Remove the sauce from heat and serve immediately over your favorite pasta.