Alfredo Sauce Recipe

This creamy Alfredo sauce is a dreamy blend of rich, velvety textures and indulgent flavors that elevate any dish in just 20 minutes.

With its smooth, buttery base and a hint of garlic, it’s the perfect companion for pasta, veggies, or even grilled chicken.

The simplicity of the recipe means you can whip it up effortlessly, yet it tastes like it’s straight from a gourmet kitchen.

Every bite offers a luxurious mouthfeel, with the Parmesan adding a savory depth that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this sauce delivers restaurant-quality results without the fuss.

Its quick prep and cook time make it a go-to for busy days when you crave something special yet easy.

Ingredients for Creamy Alfredo Sauce

• 12 ounces cauliflower florets (about 1 small cauliflower)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 to 1½ cups reserved pasta cooking water (adjust as needed for consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the cauliflower: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook until fork-tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain well.
2. Blend the sauce: Transfer the cooked cauliflower to a blender. Add the Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, butter, lemon juice, sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper.
3. Add pasta water: Pour in 1 cup of the reserved pasta cooking water and blend until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Adjust consistency: As you toss the sauce with your pasta, add the remaining ½ cup of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
5. Serve and enjoy: Top with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately with your favorite pasta!

Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions for Alfredo Sauce

This creamy Alfredo sauce is incredibly versatile! Toss it with your favorite pasta like fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti for a classic dish. For a lighter option, drizzle it over steamed vegetables or roasted broccoli.

You can also use it as a dipping sauce for garlic bread or a base for a cheesy pizza. Don’t forget to top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a finishing touch!

Storing and Reviving Your Alfredo Sauce

Store leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to restore its creamy texture.

Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to separate. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Quick Tips for a Smoother Sauce

For an ultra-smooth Alfredo sauce, blend the cauliflower mixture on high for at least 1-2 minutes. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the blender instead. To save time, use pre-chopped cauliflower florets or steam them in the microwave for 5-6 minutes.

Remember, the pasta water is key—it helps bind the sauce and adds a silky finish, so don’t skip it!

Recipe Variations to Try

Customize your Alfredo sauce to suit your taste! Add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth, or stir in a handful of spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

For a protein boost, mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon. If you’re dairy-free, swap the Parmesan for nutritional yeast and use vegan butter. The possibilities are endless!

Alfredo Sauce

Amy

This creamy Alfredo sauce is a dreamy blend of rich, velvety textures and indulgent flavors that elevate any dish in just 20 minutes. With its smooth, buttery base and a hint of garlic, it’s the perfect companion for pasta, veggies, or even grilled chicken.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Servings 4

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 12 ounces cauliflower florets (1 small cauliflower)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese more for serving
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 to 1 1/2 cups reserved pasta cooking water

Instructions

 

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower and boil until the cauliflower is fork tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and place the cauliflower in a blender.
• Add the Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, mustard, butter, lemon juice, salt, and several grinds of pepper.
• Add 1 cup of the pasta water to the blender and blend the sauce until creamy.
• As you toss your alfredo sauce with pasta, you may want to add the additional 1/2 cup pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce.

Keyword Alfredo, cream, garlic, Parmesan, pasta

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