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Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo with Garlic and Parmesan

creamy fettuccine alfredo - featured image

A quick and easy homemade creamy fettuccine Alfredo made with garlic, butter, Parmesan, and a touch of pasta water for a silky, luscious sauce without heavy cream.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) fettuccine pasta, dried or fresh
  • 4 tablespoons (60 grams) unsalted butter
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced finely
  • 1 ½ cups (about 150 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¾ cup (180 ml) heavy cream (optional, can substitute with half-and-half)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) reserved pasta cooking water
  • Salt, to taste (kosher or sea salt preferred)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water (4-6 quarts) to a boil. Add 1-2 tablespoons of salt. Boil the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until soft and fragrant, avoiding browning.
  3. Lower heat to medium-low and add heavy cream (if using). Stir to combine, then slowly add freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
  4. Drain pasta and transfer directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly with tongs or wooden spoon to coat evenly. Add more pasta water if needed for creamy consistency.
  5. Season with freshly cracked black pepper and adjust salt to taste. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley if desired.
  6. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor. Avoid browning garlic to prevent bitterness. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. If sauce separates or becomes grainy, whisk in warm pasta water to bring it back together. Serve immediately for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: fettuccine Alfredo, creamy pasta, garlic Parmesan sauce, easy Alfredo recipe, homemade Alfredo, quick dinner, comfort food