Introduction
The rich, creamy, and utterly delightful Alfredo sauce has made its mark on the culinary scene, particularly at the famous Olive Garden restaurant. A favorite among many, this sauce elevates a simple pasta dish to an indulgent meal. What makes this sauce truly special is its harmonious blend of butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, creating a velvety texture that’s simply irresistible. If you’ve ever wanted to bring that iconic Olive Garden taste into your kitchen, you’re in for a treat. In this post, we’re diving into a remarkable Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce recipe that you and your loved ones will surely adore.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp garlic, finely minced
- 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s completely melted, add the finely minced garlic and sauté for a minute or until fragrant.
- Gradually pour in the heavy cream while continuously stirring. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Slowly add the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly to ensure a smooth texture.
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and, if you’re using, Italian seasoning. Let the sauce cook for another 2-3 minutes or until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Once cooked, remove the sauce from the heat. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving with your choice of pasta.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though this may slightly alter the richness of the sauce.
- If you prefer a more pronounced garlic flavor, you can adjust the amount of garlic based on your liking.
- This sauce thickens as it cools. If you find it too thick, you can always add a splash of milk or cream while reheating.
FAQ
1. Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe? While Parmesan is the classic choice, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Romano or Asiago. However, for the authentic Olive Garden taste, stick to Parmesan.
2. How do I store leftover sauce? Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little milk or cream to thin if necessary.
3. Can I add proteins to this Alfredo sauce? Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms can be added to the sauce for a more fulfilling meal.