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Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

This copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce recipe is rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy. With a smooth blend of butter, heavy cream, Parmesan, and Romano cheese, this homemade sauce captures the exact taste and texture of the restaurant classic.

Ingredients

Scale

Sauce:

½ cup unsalted butter

2 cups heavy cream

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 oz cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

½ cup grated Romano cheese

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Pasta:

1 lb fettuccine or pasta of your choice

Salt for pasta water

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

  • Add salt generously to the water.

  • Cook 1 pound of fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.

  • Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

  • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup butter.

  • Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (do not brown).

  • Add 2 cups heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

  • If using, stir in 2 oz cream cheese until melted and fully combined.

3. Add the Cheeses

  • Reduce heat to low.

  • Gradually whisk in 1 cup Parmesan and ½ cup Romano cheese.

  • Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

4. Season the Sauce

  • Taste the sauce and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

  • Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

  • Add cooked pasta to the sauce.

  • Toss well until pasta is evenly coated with the Alfredo sauce.

  • Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Cream Cheese is optional but recommended for a creamier, more stable sauce.

  • Always use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce—pre-shredded cheese may not melt properly.

  • Avoid overheating the sauce to prevent curdling or grainy texture.

  • This sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently with a splash of cream or milk.