Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Name: Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 package pasta (penne or your choice); 1 stick of butter; 1 clove of minced garlic; 1 pint of heavy cream; 1 cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons cream cheese; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon white pepper

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

Jump to Recipe

Indulge in the rich, creamy flavor of Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce with this easy-to-make copycat recipe. Perfectly paired with your favorite pasta, this homemade Alfredo sauce brings a taste of restaurant-quality comfort right to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

1 package pasta (penne or your favorite type)

1 stick of butter

2 tablespoons cream cheese

1 clove of minced garlic

1 pint of heavy cream

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated

1/2 teaspoon white pepper

Directions:

Cook the Pasta: Begin by preparing the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, keeping it warm.

Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t burn. Next, pour in the heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir frequently, heating the mixture until it begins to bubble, but avoid boiling.

Add the Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue mixing until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and white pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.

Combine and Serve: Add the hot Alfredo sauce to the cooked pasta, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best flavor and creamy texture.

Serving Tips:

Serve Hot: For the best flavor and texture, serve the Alfredo sauce immediately after mixing it with the pasta. The sauce is at its creamiest when hot.

Garnish: Enhance your dish with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil or parsley leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Pairings: Complement your Alfredo pasta with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread to balance the richness of the dish.

Storage Tips:

Cool and Store: If you have leftovers, let the Alfredo sauce cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.

Refrigerate: Store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the pasta and sauce separate if possible, to maintain the best texture.

Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid separating the sauce. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

Freeze with Caution: While Alfredo sauce can be frozen, it may change texture slightly. To freeze, place the sauce in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Related Recipes:

FAQs:

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese for this recipe?

Using pre-grated Parmesan cheese is convenient, but for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to use freshly grated Parmesan. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and integrates better into the sauce, providing a creamier result.

Can I make this Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore the sauce’s original consistency.

What can I do if my Alfredo sauce is too thick?

If your Alfredo sauce turns out too thick, simply add a bit of milk or cream while reheating to reach your desired consistency. Stir the sauce frequently while adding liquid to ensure it blends smoothly.

Can I use a different type of pasta with this sauce?

Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or farfalle. Just cook the pasta according to the package instructions and mix it with the Alfredo sauce for a delicious meal.

Conclusion:

Enjoy this homemade Alfredo sauce with a simple green salad and some garlic bread for a complete, indulgent meal that rivals Olive Garden’s own recipe. This easy dish is sure to become a family favorite, delivering the creamy, comforting flavors you crave.

📖 Recipe: