Creamy, comforting, and unbelievably simple, Fettuccine Alfredo is the kind of meal that instantly wraps you in warmth. With its velvety Parmesan cheese sauce and silky pasta strands, this dish is pure indulgence with minimal effort. It’s no surprise that it’s become a beloved weeknight favorite and a go-to for special occasions alike.


Whether you’re cooking for your family, whipping up a romantic dinner, or just craving something rich and satisfying, this Fettuccine Alfredo delivers restaurant-level flavor at home. With just a handful of ingredients and a short cook time, it’s an easy recipe that guarantees big results.
What Kind of Fettuccine Should I Use?
Fresh or dried? Both work beautifully! If you want a quicker cooking time and a slightly more delicate texture, go with fresh fettuccine. Dried fettuccine holds its shape better and offers a chewier bite, making it ideal for soaking up all that creamy Alfredo sauce. Just make sure you cook it until al dente for the perfect texture.
Ingredients for the Fettuccine Alfredo
Fettuccine Pasta – The star of the show, this long, flat noodle is perfect for holding onto that luxurious sauce.
Butter – Adds richness and acts as the base for the sauce. Use high-quality unsalted butter for best flavor control.
Heavy Cream – This is where all the creaminess comes from. It thickens as it simmers and creates a luscious texture.
Fresh Garlic – Just a clove or two enhances the flavor without overpowering the creamy base.
Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated is key! It melts beautifully into the sauce for that signature Alfredo flavor.
Salt and Pepper – To bring all the flavors together. Don’t skip the pepper; it adds a subtle kick that cuts through the richness.
Fresh Parsley (optional) – For garnish and a pop of color and freshness.
How To Make the Fettuccine Alfredo
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Start the Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant (don’t brown it).
Step 3: Add the Cream
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheese
Reduce the heat and add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and thick.
Step 5: Combine Pasta & Sauce
Toss the drained fettuccine into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Use tongs to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Serving and Storing Fettuccine Alfredo
Fettuccine Alfredo is best enjoyed fresh off the stove, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to a skillet over low heat and stir until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the sauce separate.
What to Serve With Fettuccine Alfredo?
Garlic Bread
Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a classic side to scoop up every bit of sauce.
Grilled Chicken
Sliced grilled chicken breast adds a protein boost and turns this into a hearty meal.
Caesar Salad
The tangy, crisp nature of Caesar salad balances out the creaminess of the pasta.
Steamed Broccoli
Lightly steamed veggies bring freshness and color to your plate.
Roasted Mushrooms
Earthy, roasted mushrooms pair beautifully with Alfredo’s richness.
Want More Pasta Ideas?
If you loved this Fettuccine Alfredo, here are more creamy, dreamy pasta recipes to try next:
- Cheesy Ranch Chicken Garlic Butter Fettuccine — with bold flavor in every bite.
- Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni — for a meatier, heartier twist.
- Creamy Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta — a velvety weeknight favorite.
- Spicy Cajun Steak Mozzarella Alfredo Pasta — for heat lovers!
- Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni — comfort food at its finest.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe added some grilled shrimp or swapped in gluten-free pasta? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.
Fettuccine Alfredo
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Silky pasta wrapped in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce—Fettuccine Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, easy recipe for guests, or weeknight food idea, this classic dish delivers bold flavor with just a few ingredients. It’s perfect for everything from indulgent dinners to a cozy night in. If you’re exploring quick meals, healthy-ish comfort dishes, or creamy pasta ideas, this one checks all the boxes with minimal effort.
Ingredients
8 oz fettuccine pasta
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce the heat to low, add the Parmesan cheese, and stir until the sauce is smooth.
5. Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce, tossing until well coated. Add pasta water to thin if needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms, shrimp, or grilled chicken.
Always use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 740
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 52g
- Saturated Fat: 32g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: easy recipe, pasta dinner, quick dinner, creamy pasta, comfort food, fettuccine alfredo
