Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe - Olive Garden Copycat

Do you love Olive Garden’s creamy, dreamy Fettuccine Alfredo? Imagine being able to recreate this iconic dish in your own kitchen, infusing your home with the rich aroma of garlic, butter, and cheese. Whether you’re an experienced home chef or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through every step to achieve that perfect restaurant-quality dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Substitutions

• The cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Parmesan cheese can be mixed with Romano or Asiago cheese for added depth of flavor.
• Gluten-free pasta for those with dietary restrictions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Alfredo Sauce

1. Melt the Butter:

• • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s fully liquefied.
  2. Add Garlic:
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Pour in the Cream:
  • Gradually add the heavy cream, constantly stirring to combine with the butter and garlic.
  4. Simmer:
  • Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly.
  5. Incorporate the Cheese:
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  6. Season:
  • Add salt and pepper to taste. Set the sauce aside while you cook the pasta.

  2. Cooking the Fettuccine

  1. Boil Water:
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
  2. Cook the Pasta:
  • Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
  3. Drain:
  • Reserve a cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta. Do not rinse; you want the starches to help bind the sauce to the pasta.

  3. Combining Sauce and Pasta

  1. Mix in the Sauce:
  • Return the drained pasta to the pot and pour the Alfredo sauce over it.
  2. Toss Together:
  • Gently toss the pasta with the sauce, adding small amounts of reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
  3. Serve Immediately:
  • For the best flavor and texture, serve your Fettuccine Alfredo fresh and hot.

  Serving Suggestions

  For a complete Italian experience, consider pairing your Fettuccine Alfredo with:

  • Garlic Bread:
  • Perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.
  • Caesar Salad:
  • A crisp, refreshing side that complements the rich Alfredo sauce.
  • Beverages:
  • A chilled glass of Chardonnay or a sparkling Italian soda.

  Optional Variations and Add-Ins

  Customize your Fettuccine Alfredo with these variations:

  • Chicken Alfredo:
  • Add grilled or sautéed chicken slices.
  • Shrimp Alfredo:
  • Toss in some cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.
  • Vegetable Alfredo:
  • Incorporate steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

  Conclusion

  Now that you have the secrets to making Olive Garden’s Fettuccine Alfredo at home, it's time to don your apron and get cooking! Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Don’t forget to share your culinary masterpiece with friends and family—they’ll be impressed by your newfound skills!

  Bon appétit! 🍝