Alfredo Spaghetti is a rich, creamy pasta dish that’s simple yet indulgent. Made with a luscious Alfredo sauce of butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is a timeless favorite for a comforting meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, this Alfredo spaghetti recipe is perfect for weeknights or special occasions when you want something quick yet delicious.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Extra grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. If using garlic, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cream begins to thicken.
Step 3: Add the Parmesan
Reduce the heat to low and slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with black pepper and salt to taste.
Step 4: Combine the Spaghetti and Alfredo Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat it in the Alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve the Alfredo spaghetti immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Spaghetti: While this recipe calls for spaghetti, you can use other types of pasta like fettuccine, linguine, or even penne.
- Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
Variations
1. Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti
Add grilled or sautéed chicken breast slices to the Alfredo spaghetti for a heartier meal. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for extra flavor.
2. Shrimp Alfredo Spaghetti
Sauté shrimp in butter and garlic, then toss them into the Alfredo spaghetti for a delicious seafood twist.
3. Mushroom Alfredo Spaghetti
For a vegetarian version, sauté sliced mushrooms in butter until golden brown, then stir them into the Alfredo sauce before adding the spaghetti.
4. Spinach Alfredo Spaghetti
Add fresh spinach to the Alfredo sauce, allowing it to wilt in the hot sauce. It adds a burst of color and extra nutrients to the dish.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments
For a keto-friendly version of Alfredo spaghetti:
- Replace the spaghetti with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option.
- Ensure the heavy cream and Parmesan are sugar-free and keto-compliant.
These changes will keep the creamy Alfredo flavor while lowering the carb content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Alfredo sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the Alfredo sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little cream or milk to loosen it up if needed.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Alfredo spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.
Q: Can I freeze Alfredo spaghetti?
While it’s possible to freeze Alfredo sauce, it may separate upon thawing due to the cream. If you do freeze it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently, stirring in a little cream or pasta water to bring it back together.
Q: What can I serve with Alfredo spaghetti?
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
This Alfredo Spaghetti is a creamy, comforting dish that comes together in minutes, making it perfect for any occasion. With rich, velvety Alfredo sauce coating tender spaghetti, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Whether you keep it simple or add chicken, shrimp, or veggies, this Alfredo spaghetti recipe is a must-try!