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The Ultimate 20-Minute Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Close-up of fettuccine pasta coated in rich, creamy Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce, topped with Parmesan and parsley.
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You can make the rich, creamy, garlic-Parmesan flavor of Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce right at home in just 20 minutes. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or dipping your breadsticks.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup water (or reserved pasta water)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Do not let the butter brown.
  2. Whisk in the heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often. Reduce the heat to low.
  3. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This step is key for a silky texture.
  4. If the sauce is too thick, whisk in the reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  5. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately over hot fettuccine or use as a dip for breadsticks.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting quality and flavor; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that make the sauce grainy.
  • If you are making pasta, reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy cooking water before draining. This water helps the sauce emulsify and cling perfectly to the noodles.
  • This sauce tastes best when served immediately after preparation.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesfleet.com/olive-garden-alfredo-sauce-recipe/