International Cuisine > Italian Cuisine > Pasta Dishes > Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

Classic Fettuccine Alfredo

Indulge in the creamy richness of authentic Fettuccine Alfredo. This classic Italian pasta dish is surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a few high-quality ingredients. This recipe provides detailed instructions for creating a perfectly balanced and flavorful Alfredo sauce that coats the fettuccine beautifully. Enjoy a taste of Italy in your own kitchen!

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 1 lb Fettuccine Pasta
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
  • 1 1/2 cups (freshly grated) Parmesan Cheese
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish) Fresh Parsley

Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package directions, or until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta well.

Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the heavy cream and simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the cream to warm through. Do not boil.

Combine Cheese and Sauce

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the butter and cream mixture, whisking constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained fettuccine to the saucepan with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Continue tossing until the sauce is evenly distributed and the pasta is well coated.

Serve Immediately

Serve the Fettuccine Alfredo immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Additional Parmesan cheese can be offered at the table.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 250-300 kcal
Protein: 8-10g
Fat: 18-22g
Carbohydrates: 15-20g
Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich and calorie-dense dish. Consider using a smaller portion size. To reduce fat content, you can experiment with using light cream or a blend of milk and cream, but be aware that this will alter the flavor and texture. Adding vegetables like steamed broccoli or spinach can increase the nutritional value.

← Classic Chicken Parmesan Classic Focaccia Genovese →

FAQ

  • Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

    While it's convenient, pre-shredded Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan will give you the best results.
  • How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

    The sauce will thicken as it cools. If it becomes too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
  • Can I add protein to this dish?

    Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or scallops are excellent additions to Fettuccine Alfredo.
  • Can I store leftovers?

    Fettuccine Alfredo is best served immediately. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.