Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe DIY

Olive Garden’s Alfredo sauce is famous for its creamy, rich flavor that perfectly complements pasta. If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate this beloved sauce at home, you’re in luck! This simple recipe will bring the taste of Olive Garden right to your kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make this delicious sauce.

Ingredients

To make Olive Garden Alfredo sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1-2 cloves of fresh garlic, minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1 lb fettuccine pasta (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Be careful not to burn it, as this can affect the flavor.
2. Add Garlic: If you’re using fresh garlic, add it to the melted butter and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). If using garlic powder, add it in the next step.
3. Pour in the Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine it with the melted butter. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously to melt and incorporate it into the sauce. Add the garlic powder (if not using fresh garlic), salt, and black pepper. Continue to stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Simmer and Thicken: Let the sauce simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cooks.
6. Cook the Pasta (Optional): If you’re serving the sauce with pasta, cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. Serve: Pour the Alfredo sauce over the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

• Add Chicken or Shrimp: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp to the pasta. This adds protein and makes the dish even more satisfying.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and gives the sauce a creamier texture compared to pre-grated varieties.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little pasta water or milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up.
• Store Leftovers: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed.

Final Thoughts

Making Olive Garden’s Alfredo sauce at home is easy and rewarding. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving some comfort food, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try and savor the creamy, cheesy goodness!