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The Best 10-Minute Homemade Alfredo Sauce: Rich, Creamy & Easy

Close-up of fettuccine pasta generously coated in creamy homemade alfredo sauce and topped with cracked black pepper.

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You can make a rich, creamy, restaurant-quality Alfredo sauce from scratch in just 10 minutes using only a few simple ingredients. This recipe beats any jarred sauce.

Ingredients

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  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and fully incorporated.
  5. Stir in the salt and black pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Toss immediately with your favorite cooked pasta, like fettuccine, or use as a topping for chicken or vegetables.

Notes

  • For the creamiest texture, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick as it cools, whisk in a tablespoon of warm milk or reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  • This recipe is the base for a classic Garlic Parmesan Sauce; feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg for depth if you like.

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