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The Ultimate 20-Minute Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

A close-up of fettuccine pasta generously coated in creamy Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce, topped with Parmesan and parsley.
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You can make the rich, creamy, garlic-Parmesan flavor of Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce right at home in just 20 minutes. This foolproof recipe delivers restaurant quality comfort food.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 pound fettuccine pasta (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
  2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely.
  3. Add the heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg to the melted butter. Whisk constantly until the mixture just begins to simmer around the edges. Do not let it boil rapidly.
  4. Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time, whisking continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This step is key for a silky texture.
  5. If the sauce seems too thick, whisk in a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
  6. Toss the cooked fettuccine immediately with the sauce, or serve the sauce over the pasta. Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
  • For a richer flavor, you can sauté 1 clove of minced fresh garlic in the butter for one minute before adding the cream.
  • This sauce is excellent for dipping breadsticks or as a base for chicken or shrimp Alfredo.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorandpin.com/olive-garden-alfredo-sauce-recipe/