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Authentic 20-Minute Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce: Rich, Creamy, and Better Than Takeout

Close-up of fettuccine pasta generously coated in creamy Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce and topped with black pepper.

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Make the rich, creamy, and garlicky Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce at home in just 20 minutes. This copycat recipe uses simple ingredients for restaurant-quality flavor perfect for pasta or dipping breadsticks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Do not let the butter brown.
  2. Add the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg to the melted butter. Whisk to combine.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time, until the sauce is smooth and fully incorporated. Do not boil the sauce after adding the cheese, or it may separate.
  6. Serve immediately over hot fettuccine or use as a dip for breadsticks.

Notes

  • For the best texture, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
  • If you are planning your weekly meals, this sauce is a great component for quick meal planning.
  • If you find yourself relying too much on meal delivery companies, making this sauce from scratch is a simple way to bring quality cooking back to your weeknight routine.

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