Classic Fettuccine Alfredo

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of creamy, cheesy fettuccine Alfredo. It’s a classic dish beloved by many, perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a celebratory meal. Below, we detail a traditional recipe that captures the essence of this beloved pasta dish, ensuring a delicious and satisfying experience.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fettuccine pasta: The base of our dish, fettuccine’s wide, flat noodles are ideal for clinging to creamy sauces.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to the Alfredo sauce.
• 2 cups heavy cream: The key to the luxurious, velvety texture of the sauce.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, cheesy flavor that’s essential to Alfredo.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning to enhance the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a touch of color and freshness as a garnish.

Directions

1. Preparation of Pasta:
   • Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta well, reserving a little pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later, if necessary.
2. Making the Alfredo Sauce:
   • While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. This is your chance to watch the sauce as it transforms, stirring occasionally to prevent any sticking.
3. Combining Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the drained fettuccine directly into the skillet with the thickened cream sauce. Toss the pasta gently with the sauce to coat each strand evenly. The warmth from the pasta will help thicken the sauce further and allow it to cling to the noodles.
4. Final Touches:
   • Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the fettuccine Alfredo immediately after cooking to enjoy its creamy texture at its best. Garnish each plate with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: 980 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

Fettuccine Alfredo is a testament to the beauty of Italian cuisine—simple ingredients, executed well, leading to an extraordinary meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its creamy texture and rich flavors. Enjoy your culinary journey into the heart of Italy with this timeless recipe!