If you’ve ever missed that creamy indulgence of Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo sauce, you’re not alone! Which brings us to this beloved Italian-American dish, which holds a special place in our hearts and stomach. The Alfredo sauce at Olive Garden is known for its silky, creamy texture and rich, cheesy flavor. The good news? You don’t need to go to a restaurant to have it.
In this guide, we’ll teach you precisely how to make Olive Garden Alfredo sauce in the safety of your own kitchen. Whether you’re making this for a family supper, entertaining guests or treating yourself to a cozy solo meal, this copycat recipe will give you the tastes you crave.
Nutritional Information for Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo
| Ingredient | Amount (Per Serving) | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Butter (1 tbsp) | 14g | 102 | 0.1g | 11.5g | 0g |
| Heavy Cream (1 cup) | 240g | 800 | 5g | 88g | 6g |
| Parmesan (1/4 cup) | 28g | 110 | 10g | 7g | 1g |
| Pasta (1 serving) | 85g | 320 | 8g | 1g | 42g |
What Makes Olive Garden Alfredo So Special?
Olive Garden’s Alfredo is famous for its rich creamy mouthfeel and flavor. And the secret is that it uses heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan cheese and real butter. Many store-bought Alfredo sauces are unbearably thick, and fake-tasting, but the Olive Garden product is neither. It contrasts richness with simplicity, producing a dish that’s both filling and refined.
Main Ingredients for Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo
To make an authentic copycat Olive Garden alfredo sauce, the right ingredients are a must. Here’s what you’ll need:
Butter: Unsalted, for a rich and creamy base.
Heavy Cream: This is the base of the sauce adding richness and creaminess.
Parmesan Cheese: You want fresh grated Parmesan to actually get that classic flavor. For best results, avoid pre-grated cheese.
Garlic: Diced garlic gives a slight, fragrant flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.
Pasta: Traditionally fettuccine, but any pasta shape you love will work.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo
Get Your Ingredients Ready
But make sure all your ingredients are measured and prepped before you turn on the stove. Freshness is very important here, particularly for the cheese and cream.
Melt the Butter
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Take care not to let it brown — the key here is low and slow.
Add the Garlic
Let the butter melt and then stir in some minced garlic, sautéing for around a minute, or until fragrant. This part gives the butter a little garlicky infusion.
Stir in the Cream
Add the heavy cream in a slow drizzle, whisking constantly. Let the mixture heat through, but don’t let it boil.
Add the Cheese
Turn down the heat to low and whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, a little at a time. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season to Taste
Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Keep in mind, Parmesan is salty by nature so watch the salt carefully.
Combine with Pasta
Cook your pasta following what it says on the package then toss it with the Alfredo sauce. Make sure that every single piece of hair is coated evenly.
Serve and Enjoy
Gradually add the pasta to a serving bowl and top with additional Parmesan and chopped parsley and serve immediately.
How to Perfect Your Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo
Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: Freshly grating your Parmesan is key. Pre-grated cheese also sometimes has anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting.
Heat with Care: Alfredo sauce can curdle if it gets too hot. Maintain low heat when adding the cream and cheese.
Use Good Pasta: Good pasta will absorb the sauce better, so you can always be sure to have a tasty bite.
Make It Your Own: For added protein, stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or veggies such as broccoli.
Why You Should Make Alfredo Sauce at Home
Homemade Alfredo sauce is not only tasty, with no preservatives or artificial ingredients often found in jarred versions. And when you make it from scratch, you can mix and match the flavor to suit your taste.” Discover the history of Alfredo sauce on Delish.com. When it comes to how you like your dip extra garlicky, cheesier, creamier, etc. the world is your oyster.
How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo
Classic Pairing: Serve with garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad for a restaurant-style meal.
Protein Options: Top the dish with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp or pan-seared scallops to step it up.
Vegetarian Spin: With some roasted vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms, for texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute milk for heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce won’t be as thick and creamy. To simulate the richness of cream, use whole milk and add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch as a thickener.
What is a healthier version of this recipe?
For a less rich version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and cut down on the butter. You could also top it with the sauce over zucchini noodles or whole-grain pasta.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store unused Alfredo sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. Gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk to return the creaminess.
Can I freeze Alfredo sauce?
Although you can freeze Alfredo sauce, the texture can change because of the cream. To avoid this as much as possible, freeze the sauce without the cheese and add it during reheating.
What other cheeses can I use?
Parmesan is classic, but for a little more zing, play around with the use of Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The sauce you make is naturally gluten free. Use gluten free pasta for a fully gluten free meal.
Conclusion
If thought making copycat Olive Garden Alfredo sauce at home was difficult, think again! Armed with a few simple ingredients and a bit of practice, you can recreate the cult-favorite flavors of Olive Garden right in your kitchen. You’ll not only dazzle your family and friends, you’ll also know what you’re eating.
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