Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey through a classic Italian-American recipe that promises pure comfort and decadence. This fettuccine Alfredo, famously associated with the beloved actor Carroll O'Connor, is not just a meal—it's a creamy, cheesy experience that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish you can create right in your own kitchen. Get ready to learn the secret to creating the most luxurious, velvety pasta sauce that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the fettuccine to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- While the pasta is cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat, being careful not to brown the butter.
- Slowly pour the heavy cream into the melted butter, stirring continuously to create a smooth mixture. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cream and butter to combine.
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Immediately add the hot, drained pasta to the butter and cream mixture, tossing gently to coat every strand of fettuccine.
- Gradually sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, continuously stirring to help the cheese melt and create a creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Transfer the fettuccine Alfredo to a serving platter or individual plates.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added color and a touch of freshness.
- Serve immediately while the pasta is hot and the sauce is creamy, ideally paired with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
Tips
- • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the most authentic and rich flavor • Keep your pasta water—it's liquid gold for adjusting sauce consistency • Stir continuously when adding cheese to prevent clumping • Serve immediately for the creamiest texture • Don't let the pasta sit too long, or the sauce will start to separate • For extra richness, use high-quality European-style butter • Room temperature ingredients help create a smoother sauce • Use a wide pan to ensure even coating of the pasta
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 840kcal
Carbohydrates: 66g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 54g
Saturated Fat: 34g
Cholesterol: 143mg
