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Spaghetti Alfredo

Spaghetti Alfredo

Spaghetti Alfredo is the perfect creamy comfort food made with just a few simple ingredients—spaghetti, butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. It’s quick to prepare (ready in just 30 minutes!) and packed with rich, cheesy flavor the whole family will love. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal, this dish is easy, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. Customize it with chicken, shrimp, or your favorite veggies, and don’t forget the garlic bread on the side.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 🧾 Ingredients for Spaghetti Alfredo Serves 4
  • 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
  • 4 tablespoons butter unsalted is best
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream for rich, creamy sauce
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated melts best
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh parsley red pepper flakes, or extra cheese for topping
  • 🍝 Ingredient Tips:
  • You can swap spaghetti for fettuccine penne, or gluten-free pasta.
  • No heavy cream? Try half-and-half or whole milk + 1 tbsp flour.
  • Add grilled chicken shrimp, or veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Notes

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

  1. Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente (around 8–10 minutes).
  3. Drain and save ½ cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

  1. In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and stir for 1 minute until it smells amazing.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes to thicken.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

  1. Lower the heat and slowly stir in the Parmesan cheese.
  2. Mix until it melts and turns into a smooth sauce.
  3. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

  1. Add your cooked spaghetti to the sauce pan.
  2. Toss gently until all the noodles are coated.
  3. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

  1. Plate the pasta while it’s hot.
  2. Sprinkle with extra cheese, parsley, or red pepper flakes if you like.