This is the best recipe for a perfectly rich, creamy and cheesy Alfredo sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes.
This versatile sauce is often associated with fine dining so it may seem like a difficult recipe to make. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Alfredo sauce is one of the easiest sauces to make and one that I personally rely on for easy dinner ideas.
What is Alfredo Sauce? It is a luscious and creamy white sauce that hails from Italian cuisine. Named after its creator, Alfredo di Lelio, this sauce is celebrated for its velvety texture and rich, indulgent flavor. It’s a staple in pasta dishes and has become a favorite in many households and restaurants around the world. It is so easy to make and home, but many don’t know just how easy it is!
The key ingredients of this sauce include heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. These components come together to create a blend of creamy, savory, and slightly nutty flavors. Additional seasonings such as salt, pepper, and garlic are used to enhance the taste.
Alfredo sauce’s creamy texture and rich flavor make it an excellent addition to various recipes.
Here are some delicious and creative uses for Alfredo sauce:
1. Fettuccine Alfredo: Let’s start with the classic! Toss Alfredo with cooked fettuccine pasta for the iconic Fettuccine Alfredo dish. Top with grated Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper for a timeless comfort food.
2. Chicken Alfredo: Pan-sear or grill chicken breast, then slice it and lay it atop a bed of pasta smothered in Alfredo sauce for a hearty Chicken Alfredo dish.
3. Seafood Alfredo: Gently sauté shrimp, scallops, or even crab meat, and fold them into Alfredo-coated pasta for an exquisite Seafood Alfredo.
4. Alfredo Pizza: Use this sauce as a creamy and luxurious pizza base instead of traditional tomato sauce. Top with cooked chicken, bacon, spinach, and mozzarella cheese for a unique and delicious pizza.
5. Alfredo-Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuff mushroom caps with a mixture of sauce, cooked spinach, and grated Parmesan, then bake until tender for a delightful appetizer.
6. Alfredo-Stuffed Chicken: Create a pocket in boneless chicken breasts and stuff them with a mixture of Alfredo sauce, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. Bake until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors meld together.
7. Alfredo Lasagna: Layer lasagna noodles with Alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, spinach, and mozzarella for a creamy twist on the classic lasagna.
8. Alfredo Dip: Warm Alfredo gently and serve it as a dip alongside breadsticks, garlic bread, or even vegetable crudités.
9. Alfredo Casserole: Mix cooked pasta with Alfredo sauce, cooked broccoli, and shredded chicken. Top with breadcrumbs and bake until golden for a comforting casserole.
10. Alfredo Stuffed Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and stuff them with a mixture of Alfredo-coated rice, cooked ground meat, and diced vegetables. Bake until the peppers are tender.
11. Alfredo Quesadillas: Spread Alfredo on a tortilla, add shredded cooked chicken, sautéed spinach, and shredded cheese. Fold in half and cook until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
12. Alfredo Soup: Create a creamy and comforting Alfredo soup by combining Alfredo sauce with chicken or vegetable broth. Add cooked pasta, diced cooked chicken, and vegetables for a hearty meal.
13. Alfredo Bruschetta: Top toasted baguette slices with Alfredo, diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant appetizer.
14. Alfredo-Stuffed Shells: Stuff jumbo pasta shells with a mixture of Alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, and cooked sausage. Place the shells in a baking dish, top with marinara sauce, and bake until bubbly.
15. Alfredo Mac and Cheese: Combine the Alfredo with cooked macaroni and grated cheddar cheese for a luxurious twist on the classic mac and cheese.
These are just a few creative ways to enjoy the rich and creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce. With its versatile nature, this sauce can add a touch of indulgence to a variety of dishes, allowing you to explore and experiment with your culinary creations.
Alfredo Sauce
This is the best recipe for a perfectly rich, creamy and cheesy Alfredo sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes. Alfredo sauce is one of the easiest sauces to make and one that you can rely on for easy dinner ideas.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh grated parmesan cheese, finely grated is best
- 2 Tbsp . butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- salt and pepper to taste
- pinch of fresh micro grated nutmeg optional
Instructions
- Make the Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for a few minutes to heat through. - Add Parmesan Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue whisking until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. - Season and Flavor:
Season the sauce with a pinch of nutmeg (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be cautious with the salt, as Parmesan cheese can be salty. Mix well to combine.
Notes
Tips:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size
1 gramsAmount Per Serving Unsaturated Fat 0g
kristi@ishouldbemoppingthefloor
Tuesday 1st of March 2016
What an easy and delicious meal idea! I haven't tried the protein blends yet--but I'll be changing that very soon. They both look so fresh and delicious!