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The Ultimate 20-Minute Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Close-up of fettuccine pasta coated in creamy olive garden alfredo sauce, topped with grated cheese and black pepper.

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You can make the rich, creamy, garlic-Parmesan flavor of Olive Garden’s signature Alfredo sauce right in your kitchen. This recipe is quick, easy, and tastes just like the restaurant version.

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)

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. Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, a little at a time, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg, if using. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Keep the sauce warm over very low heat while you prepare your pasta. Toss immediately with hot, drained fettuccine or use as a dip for breadsticks.

Notes

  • For the best flavor and texture, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
  • If the sauce thickens too much while sitting, whisk in a tablespoon of warm milk or reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  • This sauce is perfect for dipping your favorite breadsticks or using as a base for chicken or shrimp Alfredo.

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