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The Ultimate 20-Minute Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

A fork lifting creamy fettuccine coated in rich Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce, topped with black pepper.

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Make the rich, creamy, garlic-Parmesan Alfredo sauce from Olive Garden right in your kitchen. This easy copycat recipe is ready in 20 minutes and tastes better than takeout.

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
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional, but recommended)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low.
  4. Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese slowly until the sauce is smooth and fully incorporated. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg, if using. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Toss immediately with hot, cooked fettuccine or serve alongside your favorite breadsticks.

Notes

  • For the best results and smoothest sauce, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick while simmering, add a splash of the reserved pasta water or a little extra heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
  • This sauce is perfect for dipping your homemade breadsticks or as a base for chicken or shrimp pasta dishes.

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