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+ servings

Pasta Alfredo

A creamy and rich pasta dish made with fettuccine, butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for a comforting meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz fettuccine pasta Use fresh or dried
  • 1 tbsp salt For boiling water
For the Alfredo Sauce
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Cut into pieces for easy melting
  • 1 cup heavy cream Room temperature for better emulsification
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Use a microplane for fine grating
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder Optional, for added flavor
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper Freshly ground for best flavor
  • 1/4 tsp salt Adjust to taste
For Garnish
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley Chopped, for garnish

Method
 

Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4 quarts of water. This enhances the pasta's flavor.
  2. Add the fettuccine pasta to the boiling water. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Al dente means the pasta is cooked but still firm to the bite.
  4. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. This will create a rich base for the sauce.
  2. Once the butter is melted, add the heavy cream. Stir continuously to combine and heat through, about 2-3 minutes. Do not let it boil, as this can cause the cream to separate.
  3. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. This will thicken the sauce and give it a creamy texture.
  4. Add garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir well to incorporate all flavors.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
  1. Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
  2. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. This helps the sauce adhere to the pasta.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve
  1. Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
  2. Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy your delicious Pasta Alfredo!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 18gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 25gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For a protein addition, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also add vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition.

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