Fettuccini Alfredo Recipe
Make Fettuccini 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 & Base
Alfredo Sauce
Finishing & Garnish
Method
Pasta & Base
- 1
Bring water to boil
Fill a large pot with about 5–6 quarts (or enough for the pasta to move freely). Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon kosher salt.
- 2
Cook fettuccine
Add 12 oz fettuccine to boiling water and stir to prevent sticking. Cook until al dente according to package instructions (usually 8–12 minutes for dried, 2–4 for fresh). Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Alfredo Sauce
- 3
Melt butter and sweat garlic
In a large wide skillet or sauté pan over medium-low heat, melt 6 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add 1 teaspoon minced garlic and cook gently 30–45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- 4
Add cream and milk
Pour in 1 1/2 cups heavy cream and 1/2 cup whole milk. Turn heat to medium-low and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer (do not boil) while stirring. Let it reduce very slightly for 3–4 minutes until it thickens a bit.
- 5
Season and incorporate cheese
Lower heat to low. Stir in 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan and 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano (if using) in small handfuls, stirring until melted and smooth. Add 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. If the sauce seems too thick, add up to 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water a few tablespoons at a time to reach a silky consistency.
- 6
Adjust texture
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Keep the sauce over the lowest heat to stay warm while you combine with pasta; it should be glossy and coat the back of a spoon.
Finishing & Garnish
- 7
Combine pasta and sauce
Add the drained fettuccine directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss and gently toss with tongs or two forks for 1–2 minutes to fully coat the pasta, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if needed to loosen the sauce and achieve a smooth, emulsified coating.
- 8
Finish and serve
Remove from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley. Divide among plates or serve family-style. Sprinkle with extra grated Parmesan to taste. Serve immediately while hot.