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Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce Copycat

A rich and creamy homemade Alfredo sauce that mirrors the famous Olive Garden version, perfect for pasta and quick dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauce, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the sauce
  • 1/2 cup Salted Butter Use unsalted for a less salty flavor.
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced Adjust garlic amount according to personal preference.
  • 2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream Full-fat for best results.
  • 4 oz Full-Fat Block Cream Cheese, softened and cubed Helps create a creamy texture.
  • 1 1/2 cups Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated melts better than pre-grated.
  • 1/2 tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground for best flavor.
  • 1/8 tsp Smoked Paprika Adds depth of flavor.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t brown.
  3. Pour in the heavy whipping cream, then add the cubed cream cheese. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth.
  4. Slightly increase the heat to allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely.
  6. Finally, add salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika, whisking until the sauce is velvety smooth. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  7. Serve immediately over your choice of hot pasta.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Best consumed within three days. Can be frozen and reheated gently.