Fettuccini alfredo

Fettuccini Alfredo is a classic Italian-American dish known for its rich and creamy sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Here’s a straightforward recipe to make this delicious pasta at home:

Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) fettuccini pasta
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the fettuccini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.

2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:

   • In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • If using garlic, add it to the melted butter and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but not browned.
   • Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cream is heated through and slightly reduced.

3. Add Cheese and Combine:

   • Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
   • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

   • Add the cooked fettuccini to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach the desired consistency.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the Fettuccini Alfredo immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.

Tips:

• Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best texture and flavor. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
• Consistency: The reserved pasta water is starchy and helps to adjust the sauce’s consistency, making it creamier.
• Variation: You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like broccoli or peas to make it a more substantial meal.

Enjoy your creamy and indulgent Fettuccini Alfredo!