Craving the rich, velvety taste of Olive Garden’s famous Alfredo sauce? This homemade version takes the classic recipe to new heights, creating a sauce that’s even more indulgent and flavorful than the restaurant favorite. With high-quality ingredients and simple techniques, you’ll master this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 6 tablespoons high-quality salted butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1½ cups whole milk (1% or 2% can be substituted)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup grated Romano cheese, room temperature
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound fettuccine
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the fettuccine according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside while preparing the sauce.
- For the Alfredo sauce, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown it as this can create a bitter taste.
- Create the roux by sprinkling the flour over the butter-garlic mixture. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and create a smooth base for your sauce.
- Gradually pour in the heavy cream and milk while continuously whisking. This slow addition prevents lumps from forming and ensures a silky-smooth sauce. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Add both the Parmesan and Romano cheeses, stirring until they’re completely melted and incorporated into the sauce. The room temperature cheese will help prevent graininess in your sauce.
Presentation Tips
To serve this dish like a professional:
- Toss the cooked fettuccine directly in the sauce to ensure even coating
- Plate in pre-warmed bowls to keep the sauce creamy longer
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness
- Offer extra grated Parmesan at the table
- Serve immediately while the sauce is hot and at its creamiest
Servings and Storage
This recipe generously serves 4-6 people. While Alfredo sauce is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 26g
- Sodium: 580mg
Conclusion
This elevated version of Olive Garden’s Alfredo sauce delivers restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own home. The combination of two premium Italian cheeses, fresh garlic, and a perfectly executed roux creates a sauce that’s luxuriously creamy and packed with flavor. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or simply craving a comforting pasta dish, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Remember, the key to success lies in using high-quality ingredients and following the proper techniques for a smooth, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta.