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CopyCat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Recipe

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If you’ve ever enjoyed Olive Garden’s Alfredo Sauce and wished you could recreate it at home, you’re in luck. This Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce recipe is designed to deliver that rich, creamy flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe will have you ditching store-bought versions in favor of homemade.

Creamy copycat Olive Garden Alfredo sauce being poured over seasoned chicken, highlighting its rich texture

Why This Recipe Stands Out

When it comes to comfort food, few things compare to a bowl of creamy Alfredo pasta. Olive Garden’s version is a fan favorite, known for its velvety texture and indulgent flavor. With this copycat recipe, you can bring the same taste to your kitchen without the restaurant price tag. Here’s what makes this recipe special:

  • Quick and Easy Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Cost-Effective: Enjoy the taste of a restaurant-quality sauce for a fraction of the cost.
  • Versatility: Great not only for pasta but also as a dip for bread or a base for pizza.

Many home cooks rave about this recipe, finding it a perfect alternative to the original. Its creamy texture and savory flavor make it a standout.

Closeup of creamy, restaurant-quality Alfredo sauce poured over egg noodles, showcasing rich texture

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 stick unsalted butter – Provides the rich, buttery base for the sauce.
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream – Essential for that creamy, smooth texture.
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds a more intense flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 1/2 teaspoon fresh garlic, minced – Adds a depth of flavor to the sauce.
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste – For seasoning.

Directions for the Perfect Alfredo Sauce

  1. Melt Butter and Combine with Cream:
    • In a medium saucepan, place the stick of unsalted butter and the heavy whipping cream.
    • Heat over medium heat, allowing the butter to melt completely and blend with the cream.
    • Stir occasionally to ensure the mixture doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
  2. Incorporate Cheese and Garlic:
    • Once the butter is melted and the cream is warmed, add in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
    • If using garlic powder, add it now; if using fresh garlic, add it along with the cheese.
    • Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Simmer the Sauce:
    • Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
    • Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from burning or sticking to the pan.
  4. Season to Taste:
    • After the sauce has thickened to your liking, add salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences.
    • Give the sauce one last stir to ensure the seasoning is well incorporated.
  5. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Pour the Alfredo sauce over cooked fettuccine noodles or your favorite pasta.
    • For an extra touch, garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Expert Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s consistency.
  • Avoid Overheating: Simmer the sauce on low heat to prevent it from separating or burning.
  • Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of milk or cream.

Creamy copycat Olive Garden Alfredo sauce on egg noodles, garnished with fresh basil and a backdrop of olive oil

FAQ

  • Can I use other types of cheese? While Parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Mozzarella, Gruyere, Gouda, or Asiago for different flavors. Just remember that Parmesan provides the authentic taste.
  • What if I don’t have heavy cream? You can use milk or a combination of Greek yogurt and cream cheese as a substitute. However, the texture and richness will be slightly different.

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Origins and Fun Facts

The original Alfredo sauce was created by Alfredo di Lelio, an Italian restaurateur, in the early 20th century. It quickly gained popularity in the U.S., where it was adapted and became a staple in Italian-American cuisine. Olive Garden’s version has become iconic for its creamy consistency and rich flavor, making it a beloved choice for many.

In Summary

This Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a beloved restaurant dish at home. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can create a rich, creamy sauce that will impress your family and friends. Whether you serve it over pasta, use it as a dip, or as a pizza base, this sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and see why it’s a favorite among many!

By Author Julee

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About Julee: Julee Morrison is an experienced author with 35 years of expertise in parenting and recipes. She is the author of four cookbooks: The Instant Pot College Cookbook, The How-To Cookbook for Teens, The Complete Cookbook for Teens, and The Complete College Cookbook. Julee is passionate about baking, crystals, reading, and family. Her writing has appeared in The LA Times (Bon Jovi Obsession Goes Global), Disney's Family Fun Magazine (August 2010, July 2009, September 2008), and My Family Gave Up Television (page 92, Disney Family Fun August 2010). Her great ideas have been featured in Disney's Family Fun (Page 80, September 2008) and the Write for Charity book From the Heart (May 2010). Julee's work has also been published in Weight Watchers Magazine, All You Magazine (Jan. 2011, February 2011, June 2013), Scholastic Parent and Child Magazine (Oct. 2011), Red River Family Magazine (Jan. 2011), BonAppetit.com, and more. Notably, her article "My Toddler Stood on Elvis' Grave and Scaled Over Boulders to Get to a Dinosaur" made AP News, and "The Sly Way I Cured My Child's Lying Habit" was featured on PopSugar. When she's not writing, Julee enjoys spending time with her family and exploring new baking recipes.
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