Mention the word Alfredo and thoughts of Fettuccine are not far behind. Although the white sauce known as an Alfredo Sauce can be served on any pasta, fettuccine alfredo is a well known dish. The Italian version of alfredo made from butter, flour and heavy cream takes on a more filling meal approach with the addition of other ingredients such as chicken, broccoli, or other meats and vegetables. When making an easy Fettuccine Alfredo, the primary concentration of preparation focuses on the creamy white sauce. Modern conveniences have made alfredo sauces available in jarred store bought versions but the taste of a fresh sauce made with butter and heavy cream is far more appetizing and not difficult to make.
How to Make a Roux
A roux is used in making a white sauce. The roux creates the thickness of the sauce while other ingredients add the varying flavors. To make a roux, begin with equal amounts of butter and flour. Melt butter in a medium pan before adding the flour. Whisk the flour in the pan to combine it with the butter working to remove any lumps if possible as it starts to brown. Add a heavy cream, or half and half for a lighter sauce, whisking as the liquid is added. Continue simmering until the sauce is thick.
Make Your Own Alfredo Sauce
The roux forms the beginning step of an Alfredo sauce. To make a Fettuccine Alfredo, follow these instructions.
Fettuccine Alfredo Ingredients
- 2 cups half & half (or heavy whipping cream)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat.
- Add garlic and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
- Add flour, stirring until blended.
- Add half & half.
- Stir sauce over medium-low heat until sauce thickens, can take 15 to 20 minutes.
- Do not bring mix to a boil or it will scorch
- Reduce heat if necessary.
- Add parmesan cheese. Stir to melt cheese for 2 minutes
- Remove sauce from heat.
- Serve over cooked fettuccine noodles.
Easy Alfredo Sauce Variations
Use the above Alfredo sauce recipe and add any of the following after the sauce is thickened and parmesan is mixed in the sauce.
- Cubed Chicken for Chicken Alfredo
- Broccoli and fresh Spinach for Vegetable Fettuccine Alfredo
- Shrimp, clams, and salmon flakes for Seafood Fettuccine Alfredo
An easy alfredo sauce can be turned into a variety of meals by changing the item accompanying the sauce or changing the pasta it is served with. Alfredo sauce is best when made immediately before serving but can be kept in the refrigerator for future meals.
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