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The Ultimate 20-Minute Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Close-up of fettuccine pasta generously coated in rich, creamy Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce on a white plate.

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Make the rich, creamy, garlic-Parmesan Alfredo sauce just like Olive Garden at home. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for fettuccine or dipping breadsticks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low.
  4. Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and fully incorporated. Continue to cook on low for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, if using.
  6. Toss immediately with cooked fettuccine or serve warm as a dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting quality and flavor; pre-shredded cheese can make the sauce grainy.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick upon standing, whisk in a tablespoon of milk or reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  • This sauce pairs well with chicken, shrimp, or steamed broccoli.

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