Ultimate Classic Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

Ultimate Classic Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

This velvety, restaurant-quality Fettuccine Alfredo delivers the perfect balance of rich, creamy sauce clinging to al dente pasta – ready in just 30 minutes!

KEY INFO

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Difficulty: Easy
• Diet: Contains dairy, gluten

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Large pot for pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Whisk
• Cheese grater
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Tongs or pasta server

Quick Tip: A heavy-bottomed pan works best for even sauce heating.

INGREDIENTS

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound (450g) fettuccine pasta
• 2 tablespoons (30g) salt for pasta water

For the Sauce:

• 6 tablespoons (85g) salted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups (360ml) heavy cream
• 2 cups (200g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• ½ cup (120ml) reserved pasta water

METHOD

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add salt.
2. Cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).

3. While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not brown.

5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Before draining pasta, reserve ½ cup of the cooking water.

7. Remove sauce from heat and gradually whisk in 1½ cups Parmesan until smooth.
8. Add drained pasta to the sauce, tossing well to coat. Add pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
9. Season with pepper and additional salt if needed.
10. Serve immediately, topped with remaining Parmesan.

CRUCIAL TIPS

• Never use pre-grated cheese – it won’t melt properly.
• Pasta water is essential for the perfect sauce consistency.
• Sauce will thicken as it cools – work quickly.
• Keep heat moderate to prevent sauce from breaking.

STORAGE & VARIATIONS

Storage: Best served fresh. Can be refrigerated for 2-3 days but sauce may separate.

Reheating: Warm gently with a splash of cream while stirring constantly.

Variations:

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Stir in steamed broccoli or peas.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg for traditional flavor.
• Use half-and-half for a lighter version.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Overheating the sauce.
• Using cold dairy ingredients.
• Overcooking the pasta.
• Skipping the pasta water.

For the creamiest results, bring dairy ingredients to room temperature before starting.

Let me know if you need any clarification on the steps or have questions about ingredients!