Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Creamy, rich, and packed with garlic and Parmesan, this Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce brings the beloved Italian restaurant favorite right into your kitchen. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like butter, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, this sauce is silky smooth and incredibly flavorful. Paired with perfectly cooked fettuccine, it creates a classic Italian-American dish that’s both comforting and elegant. The addition of freshly ground black pepper and garlic adds depth, making the sauce taste like it was simmered slowly all day.

This homemade version is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to your taste, whether you want it thicker, thinner, or more garlicky. It’s a perfect choice for a cozy dinner, special occasion, or even meal prep. You’ll love how it elevates simple pasta into something truly special without any complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Restaurant Flavor

Captures the creamy, garlicky essence of Olive Garden’s Alfredo sauce perfectly.

Simple Ingredients

Uses pantry staples that are easy to find and come together quickly.

Easy to Make

No complex techniques, just melt, stir, and simmer.

Versatile

Works with fettuccine or any pasta of your choice and pairs well with chicken or veggies.

Customizable

Adjust garlic, pepper, and cheese levels to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

• Fettuccine pasta
• Garlic, finely grated
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Butter, divided and cubed
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Kosher salt
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

• Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for a complete meal.
• Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli.
• Extra Cheese: Stir in mozzarella or Asiago for a cheesier sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook Pasta

Prepare fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add finely grated garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 3: Add Cream and Pepper

Slowly stir in the heavy cream and 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Simmer gently, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Incorporate Remaining Butter and Cheese

Add the remaining butter cubes one at a time, allowing each to melt into the sauce. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Season and Combine

Season with kosher salt and additional black pepper to taste. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce until well coated.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth texture.
• Don’t boil the cream; gentle simmering preserves its richness.
• Stir continuously after adding cheese to avoid clumping.
• Adjust sauce thickness by adding pasta water a tablespoon at a time.
• Prepare pasta just before finishing the sauce for optimal freshness.

How to Serve

Serve this Alfredo sauce tossed with fettuccine as a main course or alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. Garnish with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley for a restaurant-quality presentation. It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This sauce is not ideal for freezing as the cream may separate upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly. Add a splash of milk or cream if it thickens too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, any pasta like linguine, penne, or even spaghetti works well.

2. Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can be used but will result in a lighter, less creamy sauce.

3. How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?

Simmer gently on medium-low heat and avoid boiling the cream.

4. Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter and cream alternatives, but the flavor will differ.

5. How much garlic should I use?

Three cloves finely grated give a balanced flavor; adjust based on preference.

6. Can I add herbs other than parsley?

Yes, basil or thyme also complement this sauce nicely.

7. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Warm slowly on the stove with a little added cream or milk.

8. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just increase ingredients proportionally and cook in a larger pan.

9. How long does it take to make?

About 20 minutes from start to finish.

10. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or peas work great.

Conclusion

This Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce delivers rich, creamy, and garlicky comfort food that’s simple to make at home. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal anytime. Perfectly paired with fettuccine and customizable with your favorite add-ins, this sauce will become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

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