Alfredo Spaghetti Recipe: Creamy & Comforting

Alfredo Spaghetti Recipe
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Total Time 30 mins
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 350  F
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $  10
Calories: 450
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year
Description

Rich, velvety, and deeply satisfying, Alfredo Spaghetti is a classic pasta dish made with tender spaghetti noodles coated in a luscious sauce of butter, cream, and parmesan cheese. This comforting dish brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen in under 30 minutes. Whether served as a weeknight meal or an indulgent date night dinner, it's a timeless favorite that always impresses.

Ingredients
    For the Alfredo Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (not pre-shredded; it makes a huge difference!)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but adds depth)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
    • For the Spaghetti:
  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • Salt for pasta water
    • Optional Add-ins:
  • Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon
  • Steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach
  • Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions
  1. 1
    Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a boil.
  2. 2
    Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
  3. 3
    Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
  4. 4
    In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  5. 5
    Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  6. 6
    Pour in the heavy cream and stir. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat.
  7. 7
    Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  8. 8
    Season with nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.
  9. 9
    Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
  10. 10
    Transfer to serving plates and garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, or red pepper flakes.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 450kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 20g31%
Saturated Fat 12g60%
Sodium 450mg19%
Total Carbohydrate 50g17%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Protein 14g29%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.