Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Have you ever craved the creamy goodness of Olive Garden’s famous Alfredo sauce? It’s a delightful mix of buttery, cheesy, and garlicky flavors that makes any pasta dish sing! Now, you can create this delicious sauce right at home with simple ingredients. This Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce recipe is easy to follow and perfect for a cozy dinner.

Why Make This Recipe

Making your own Alfredo sauce means you can customize it just the way you like! You can adjust the creaminess, cheese level, and seasonings to fit your taste. Plus, it’s much easier and quicker than going out for dinner. With just a few simple steps, you can bring that restaurant experience straight to your kitchen.

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 package of pasta (I like penne)
• 1 stick of butter
• 1 clove of minced garlic
• 1 pint of heavy cream
• 1 cup of fresh Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta: First, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. You can use your favorite shape; penne works great! Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the stick of butter. Add in the minced garlic and cook for about two minutes until it’s fragrant.
3. Add Cream: Next, pour in the heavy cream and add the cream cheese. Stir and heat until it starts bubbling, but be careful not to let it boil.
4. Add Cheese: Gradually add the fresh Parmesan cheese to the bubbling mixture. Stir until the cheese melts completely into the sauce.
5. Season the Sauce: Sprinkle in salt and white pepper to taste. You can adjust these based on your personal preference.
6. Combine: Mix the hot Alfredo sauce into the drained pasta. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy goodness! Serve immediately.

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Serve your delicious Alfredo pasta hot, straight from the pan. You can garnish it with extra Parmesan cheese or crushed black pepper for added flavor. It pairs perfectly with a side salad and some garlic bread!

How to Store Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the sauce on low heat, stirring to bring back the creamy texture. You may need to add a splash of cream or milk to help it loosen up.

Tips to Make Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

• Use Fresh Cheese: Always use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Do Not Boil: Make sure not to let the cream sauce boil, as it can affect the texture.
• Customize Flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or extra garlic for a twist on the classic flavor!

Variation (If Any)

You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like broccoli to the pasta for a heartier meal. This sauce also works well over steamed vegetables or as a pizza base!

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
   Yes, but fresh Parmesan will give you a better taste and creamier texture.

2. Is this sauce gluten-free?
   The sauce itself is gluten-free, but check the pasta brand for gluten-free options if needed.

3. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
   You can prepare the sauce in advance, but it’s best to mix it with fresh pasta right before serving for the best texture.