This creamy and delicious Alfredo sauce is a game-changer for all your favorite pasta dishes! Made with simple ingredients, it comes together in just 15 minutes for a rich, velvety sauce that tastes better than anything you’ll find in a jar.

Cuisine: Italian-American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 10
Why You’ll Love Making It
- Quick & Easy: This sauce comes together in just 15 minutes with simple, everyday ingredients.
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Rich, creamy, and packed with garlicky, cheesy goodness, this Alfredo sauce rivals your favorite Italian restaurant’s version.
- Customizable: You can adjust the thickness, add proteins like chicken or shrimp, or mix in vegetables for extra flavor.
- No Preservatives: Unlike store-bought versions, this homemade sauce has no added preservatives, giving you a fresher and healthier option.
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter – Unsalted is best, so you can control the salt level in the sauce.
- 1 pint (2 cups) heavy whipping cream – This creates the rich, velvety texture that makes Alfredo sauce so decadent.
- 4 ounces cream cheese – Adds an extra layer of creaminess and helps thicken the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances the depth of flavor. You can use pre-minced for convenience.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds extra garlicky goodness and enhances the savory taste.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that adds a subtle depth of flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste, especially if using salted butter.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a slight warmth to balance the richness.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated is best for the smoothest texture and richest flavor. Avoid pre-shredded Parmesan, as it doesn’t melt as well.
Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Butter & Cream Cheese
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the butter, heavy whipping cream, and cream cheese. Stir continuously as the butter and cream cheese melt, ensuring they blend smoothly. This should take 3–5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Seasonings
Once the mixture is fully melted and smooth, add the minced garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk well to combine.
Step 3: Stir in the Parmesan Cheese
Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly to help it melt evenly into the sauce.
Step 4: Simmer Until Thickened
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer (do not boil) over low to medium heat. Cook for 3–5 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of warm milk or reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Remove from heat and immediately toss with hot cooked pasta, such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne. Serve warm, and enjoy!
FAQs
Can I make Alfredo sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to restore its smooth texture.
Can I freeze homemade Alfredo sauce?
Dairy-based sauces can separate when frozen, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm slowly while whisking to restore the creamy consistency.