Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

This Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce recipe brings the creamy, rich flavors of the classic Italian dish right to your kitchen! Made with Parmesan, Romano cheese, and a blend of heavy cream and butter, this easy homemade Alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with fettuccine for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or adding chicken, shrimp, or veggies for a hearty twist, this authentic Alfredo sauce recipe is a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special occasions, it’s a must-try for pasta lovers!

Ingredients

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 6 tablespoons salted butter (high-quality for best flavor)
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups whole milk (1% or 2% can be substituted if needed)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated and at room temperature
• ½ cup Romano cheese, grated and at room temperature
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb. fettuccine
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions.
• Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency later.

2. Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. Melt the Butter:

• In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

1. Make the Roux:

• Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to eliminate the raw flour taste.

1. Add Cream and Milk:

• Gradually add the heavy cream in small splashes, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Repeat with the milk.

1. Simmer and Thicken:

• Bring the sauce to a gentle bubble, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir frequently as the sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes.

1. Incorporate the Cheese:

• Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the Parmesan and Romano cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
• Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce and toss until well coated. Allow the pasta to absorb the sauce for a minute or two, as it will thicken further.
• If needed, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen the sauce.

4. Serve and Garnish

• Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Replicates the creamy, rich Alfredo sauce from Olive Garden.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh cheeses for authentic taste.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Adjust the richness or add protein and veggies to suit your preferences.

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Tips

• Use Room-Temperature Cheese: Ensures the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.
• Don’t Overheat: Keep the heat low when adding the cheese to prevent it from separating.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Helps adjust the sauce’s thickness if it becomes too thick.
• High-Quality Butter: Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use lower-fat milk.
• Cheese Swaps: Use Asiago or Gruyère instead of Romano for a different flavor profile.
• Add Proteins: Include cooked chicken, shrimp, or grilled salmon for a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian Add-Ons: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with a gluten-free alternative.

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FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen it if necessary.

What’s the best cheese for Alfredo sauce?
Freshly grated Parmesan and Romano cheeses are ideal for their flavor and meltability. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it may not melt smoothly.

Can I freeze Alfredo sauce?
Due to the dairy content, freezing may alter the texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

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Serving

Serve this rich Alfredo sauce with garlic bread, a fresh Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine for a restaurant-style experience at home.

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Suggestions

• Make It a Feast: Add a side of crispy chicken Parmesan or shrimp scampi for a special occasion.
• Flavor Boost: Stir in a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Meal Prep: Divide into individual servings for quick, reheatable lunches throughout the week.