Spaghetti Alfredo Recipe
Make Spaghetti Alfredo Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pasta
Alfredo Sauce
Finish & Garnish
Method
Pasta
Boil water and cook spaghetti
Bring 4 liters of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 1 tablespoon kosher salt. Add 12 oz spaghetti and stir to prevent sticking. Cook uncovered at a lively simmer according to package instructions for al dente (usually 8–10 minutes). Reserve 3/4 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside. Do not rinse.
Alfredo Sauce
Prepare garlic butter base
In a large sauté pan or shallow saucepan over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add 2 cloves garlic that have been finely minced and cook, stirring, for 30–45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Add milk and cream
Slowly whisk in 1 cup whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer (do not boil). Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken slightly, about 2–3 minutes.
Incorporate cheeses
Reduce heat to low. Add 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan and 2 oz softened cream cheese in small handfuls, whisking or stirring constantly to melt and create a smooth, glossy sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add up to 2–4 tablespoons of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
Season sauce
Season with 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, a pinch of nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed (remember the Parmesan is salty). Keep the sauce warm on the lowest heat setting while you finish the pasta.
Finish & Serve
Combine pasta and sauce
Add the drained spaghetti to the warm sauce in the pan. Pour in up to 3/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time and gently toss or use tongs to coat the pasta evenly; the starchy water helps the sauce cling. Continue tossing for 1–2 minutes until the sauce emulsifies and the spaghetti is evenly coated. If the sauce seems thin, simmer very gently for another minute; if too thick, add another tablespoon of pasta water.
Finish flavors
Drizzle 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil over the pasta and toss to add sheen. Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley. Transfer to warmed plates or a serving bowl.
Serve
Top with an additional 1/4 cup grated Parmesan at the table and an extra grind of black pepper. Serve immediately.