Description
A quick, 15-minute weeknight hack for restaurant-quality, ultra-creamy Alfredo sauce using simple pantry staples like heavy cream, butter, and freshly grated Parmesan.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 ½ cups (150g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) dry white wine (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep ingredients: Mince garlic and grate Parmesan cheese. Measure cream and broth.
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat until foamy but not browned.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Do not burn.
- Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, and white wine (if using). Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time, whisking constantly until smooth and creamy.
- Remove pan from heat. Stir in nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve immediately over hot pasta, chicken, or vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Notes
Grate your own Parmesan cheese; pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting. Keep heat low when adding cheese to prevent graininess. If sauce breaks, whisk in a tablespoon of cold cream or ice water. Do not freeze this sauce as dairy separates upon thawing.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 17
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Protein: 10
Keywords: alfredo sauce, creamy pasta sauce, weeknight dinner, 5pm dinner hack, homemade alfredo, quick recipes, comfort food, gluten-free option