Description

Creamy, rich, and undeniably satisfying, Fettuccine Alfredo is the ultimate easy dinner idea for busy nights or cozy weekends. Made with buttery ribbons of pasta coated in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, this quick dinner recipe delivers elegance with minimal effort. Whether you’re after a classic Italian-inspired comfort food or exploring new food ideas for gatherings, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Ideal as a main or base for adding proteins like chicken or shrimp, this is a must-try if you’re looking for a hearty and easy recipe that feels gourmet. Perfect for dinner ideas, date nights, or when you’re just craving some creamy pasta magic.

Ingredients

12 oz fettuccine pasta

4 tbsp unsalted butter

1 1/2 cups heavy cream

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 1/4 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

1/2 cup reserved pasta water

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.

4. Reduce heat to medium-low and gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and melted. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce. Toss gently to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust consistency.

6. Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan, cracked pepper, and chopped parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

1. Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the smoothest sauce texture.

2. Don’t overheat the sauce — keep it on medium-low to prevent breaking.

3. A splash of pasta water can help emulsify the sauce for a silkier finish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 620
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 41g
Saturated Fat: 25g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 135mg