Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself longing for that luxurious, creamy pasta from your favorite Italian chain, this Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Rich, indulgent, and dreamily smooth, this sauce wraps every strand of fettuccine in flavor and comfort. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or simply want to spoil yourself with something special, mastering this Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe means you’ll have restaurant-quality pasta—right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe lies in how a handful of quality ingredients come together for a truly unforgettable dish. Each component is crucial: think silken cream, nutty Parmesan, and the deep aroma of real butter. Here’s what you’ll need and why each matters.

• 16 ounces fettuccine: Classic and sturdy, fettuccine holds every drop of luscious sauce for maximum flavor in every bite.
• 6 tablespoons salted butter: Butter is the heart of Alfredo, creating a smooth, rich foundation with unbeatable flavor.
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with irresistible aroma and a subtle kick.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a gentle, all-over garlic warmth and depth that rounds out the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon salt: A light sprinkle draws out the richness in the cream and cheese without overpowering the delicate notes.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Just enough to help the sauce thicken and cling beautifully to your pasta.
• 1¼ cup heavy whipping cream: This is what makes your Alfredo truly decadent, giving it that signature silky texture.
• 1½ cup whole milk: Balances the richness of the cream, so the sauce is luscious but not overwhelming.
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, shredded: The king of this recipe—freshly shredded Parmesan melts in for nutty, robust flavor.
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds color and a fresh, herby finish that makes the dish pop.

How to Make Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Begin by cooking your fettuccine according to the package directions. Aim for al dente, so the noodles have a slight bite and won’t become mushy once tossed in the sauce. Drain and set the pasta aside, but keep it handy—the creamy coating is coming up fast!

Step 2: Start the Sauce Base

In a large skillet, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Once it’s beautifully foamy (but not browned), add in the minced garlic, garlic powder, and salt. Whisk everything together for about a minute, letting that garlicky aroma fill your kitchen—this is where the magic begins.

Step 3: Thicken with Flour

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour directly over your butter and garlic mixture. Whisk steadily for another minute to eliminate any lumps and cook out the raw flour taste, creating a smooth paste that will ensure your Alfredo sauce is velvety, not runny.

Step 4: Add Cream and Milk

Slowly pour in both the heavy whipping cream and the whole milk, whisking constantly to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer. Let it bubble gently for 2 to 3 minutes—this is the secret to a sauce with perfect body and richness.

Step 5: Melt in the Parmesan

With your heat still low, add the shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is glossy and smooth—this is where the Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe gets its irresistible, signature taste. If you have time, let the Parmesan come to room temperature before adding; it will melt more evenly and create an extra creamy result.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked, drained fettuccine straight into the skillet. Using tongs, toss the pasta through the sauce until every noodle is luxuriously coated and the sauce thickens slightly. Don’t worry if it looks thin at first; Alfredo sauce thickens up beautifully as it sits and cools.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle with plenty of fresh, finely chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Plate up immediately—Alfredo is best enjoyed right away when the sauce is at its creamiest.

How to Serve Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Go big on the garnish for both color and flavor! Sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped parsley over the top for brightness, or try a dusting of extra Parmesan for a little cheesy drama. A quick crack of black pepper right before serving punches up the flavor even more—so simple, yet so elegant.

Side Dishes

The richness of this Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe just begs for a crisp, fresh companion. Serve alongside a simple Caesar salad, some roasted vegetables, or classic garlic bread for crunch. If you’re feeling indulgent, pair it with a chilled glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform the familiar by tossing in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted broccoli for a heartier meal. For a show-stopping touch, serve the Alfredo inside a hollowed bread bowl or let guests build their own pasta creations with bowls of extra toppings at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Spoon any extra Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, but the flavors will only deepen, making leftovers something to look forward to.

Freezing

You can freeze Alfredo sauce (without the pasta) if you want to prep ahead. Pour cooled sauce into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind, sauce with dairy can sometimes change texture when thawed, so stir vigorously once reheated.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat your Alfredo sauce over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent separation. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of milk or cream until it returns to its silky glory. Microwave reheating works in a pinch—just use low power and stir every 20 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make this Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta. The results are every bit as creamy and delicious.

What’s the secret to extra creamy Alfredo sauce?

Using both heavy cream and whole milk creates a rich base, and letting your Parmesan come to room temperature before whisking it in helps it melt smoothly. Don’t rush: gentle simmering does wonders for the finished texture.

Can I add protein or veggies to this dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, steamed broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms all pair perfectly with Alfredo. Add them during the final step so everything is coated in sauce and served piping hot.

Why does my Alfredo sauce get grainy?

Grainy texture usually comes from adding cheese to sauce that’s too hot or boiling. Always lower the heat to a gentle simmer before adding the cheese, and stir until just melted to keep it creamy and smooth.

Can I make Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe ahead of time?

Yes—you can prep the sauce in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat before tossing with fresh pasta. If making ahead, keep the sauce and pasta separate for best texture when serving.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the comfort and elegance of homemade Alfredo, and this Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe delivers every time. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bring restaurant magic to your weeknight table. Give it a whirl and see why this creamy classic is always a crowd-pleaser!

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