Print

The Ultimate 20-Minute Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

A close-up of fettuccine pasta coated in rich Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce, topped with Parmesan and parsley.
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

You can make this rich, creamy, and garlicky Alfredo sauce right at home in just 20 minutes. This recipe tastes just like the restaurant version and is perfect for serving over fettuccine or dipping your breadsticks into.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  2. Pour in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low.
  3. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, a little at a time, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Keep the heat low to prevent the sauce from breaking or becoming grainy.
  4. Stir in the salt, pepper, and the optional pinch of nutmeg. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed.
  5. Remove the sauce from the heat. If you are serving immediately over hot fettuccine, toss the pasta directly in the sauce. If you are using it as a dip or holding it, keep it warm over very low heat, stirring often.

Notes

  • For the creamiest texture, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce gritty.
  • If the sauce thickens too much while sitting, whisk in a tablespoon of milk or reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  • This sauce is excellent for dipping your homemade breadsticks!

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchnkudos.com/olive-garden-alfredo-sauce/