Looking to elevate your dinner game and impress your guests with a dish that feels like a five-star experience? Look no further than this creamy, dreamy Fettuccine Alfredo! With just a handful of simple ingredients and less than an hour of your time, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Imagine the rich flavors of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese enveloping perfectly cooked pasta, all topped off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This is not just a meal; it's an invitation to indulge in the heart of Italian cuisine. Ready to learn how to create this culinary masterpiece? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of fettuccine, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the fettuccine. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Once the garlic is ready, reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well to combine with the garlic and olive oil.
- Gradually add in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- When the fettuccine is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained fettuccine directly to the skillet with the cream sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the pasta is well coated, remove the skillet from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- To serve, plate the fettuccine and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. You can also sprinkle additional grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious fettuccine meal that is sure to impress!
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese. Fresh ingredients can make a significant difference in taste.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta for the perfect texture. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can help adjust the sauce's consistency and make it cling better to the fettuccine.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the fresh parsley garnish! It adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or even sautéed vegetables for a more robust meal.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right after cooking for the creamiest experience.With these tips, you’re well on your way to impressing everyone at your dinner table with a delightful and creamy Fettuccine Alfredo!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 95mg
