If you're craving something creamy, rich, and comforting, Fettuccine Alfredo delivers every time. It’s just a handful of ingredients: pasta, butter, cream, cheese, and pepper, but the magic lies in the way they melt together into a silky sauce. The key is to use good-quality cheese and melt it slowly so the sauce stays smooth. This dish is a classic for a reason: it’s quick to make, easy to love, and feels fancy even on a weeknight.
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tbsp of salt and the fettuccine. Stir gently to prevent sticking. Cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 120 mL of the starchy pasta water before draining the fettuccine in a colander.
Description - Step 2
Prepare The Alfredo Sauce Base
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. If using, add the peeled garlic clove to infuse a subtle garlic flavour. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil.
Description - Step 3
Add Cheese And Seasonings
Remove the garlic clove from the butter-cream mixture, if used. Lower the heat and gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Season with freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste. At this point, your Alfredo pasta sauce is ready to coat fettuccine.
Description - Step 4
Toss Pasta With Sauce
Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauté pan with the Alfredo sauce. Using tongs, gently toss the pasta to coat each strand evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add small amounts of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Description - Step 5
Serve Immediately
Transfer the Fettuccine Alfredo to warm serving plates or bowls. Garnish with additional grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!