Why Make This Recipe

Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce is a creamy and delicious sauce that brings the taste of your favorite Italian restaurant right to your kitchen. It’s easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night at home, this sauce can elevate any pasta dish. Plus, homemade sauce is fresher and more flavorful than store-bought options.

How to Make Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
• 2 ounces cream cheese (optional)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 1 pound fettuccine or pasta of your choice

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
3. Add the Heavy Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. If you’re using cream cheese, add it now and stir until it melts and combines.
4. Add the Cheese: Slowly whisk in the Parmesan and Romano cheeses until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
5. Season the Sauce: Taste the sauce and add salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Serve hot with extra grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley if desired.

How to Serve Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Serve the Alfredo sauce over your choice of cooked pasta. Fettuccine is traditional, but you can use any pasta you like. For an extra touch, top the dish with more grated Parmesan cheese and some fresh parsley. This dish pairs perfectly with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

If you have leftover sauce, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume it within 3 to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring often to maintain a creamy texture. You may need to add a splash of cream or milk to loosen it up.

Tips to Make Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

1. Use Fresh Cheese: Always use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce.
2. Don’t Overheat: Keep the heat on low when simmering the sauce to avoid burning it or causing it to separate.
3. Add More Garlic: If you love garlic, feel free to increase the amount for a stronger flavor.

Variation

For a twist on the classic Alfredo, you can add sautéed vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. Grilled chicken or shrimp also makes a great addition to the dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make Alfredo sauce without cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or milk as a lighter alternative, but the sauce will not be as rich and creamy.

2. Is it possible to freeze Alfredo sauce?
While you can freeze Alfredo sauce, the texture may change upon thawing. It’s best to use it fresh, but if you need to freeze it, make sure to reheat it gently.

3. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! You can substitute with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, but this will change the flavor of the sauce.