Can I use milk instead of half and half?

Yes, you can use whole milk for a lighter sauce, though it won't be as rich. For an even creamier sauce, heavy cream works wonderfully. Adjust the cooking time slightly as different dairy products thicken at different rates.

Why did my sauce turn out grainy?

Grainy sauce usually happens when cheese is added to a sauce that's too hot or when it's heated too quickly. To fix this, remove from heat immediately, add a splash of half and half, and whisk vigorously until smooth.

How can I make this sauce healthier?

For a lighter version, use whole milk instead of half and half and reduce the butter by half. You can also incorporate puréed cauliflower for added creaminess with fewer calories. The flavor profile will change slightly, but it's still delicious.

My sauce is too thick/thin. How can I fix it?

For too-thick sauce, add half and half, milk, or pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency. For too-thin sauce, continue simmering to reduce, or add more freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Creamy Homemade Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Description

This rich, creamy Alfredo sauce is a classic comfort food that enhances any dish with its luxurious, cheesy flavor. Perfect as a dip, pizza sauce, or poured over pasta, this versatile sauce is incredibly easy to make and beats any store-bought version. Customize the thickness to your liking and elevate your favorite dishes with this smooth, restaurant-quality sauce.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1/4 cup salted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups half and half (or 5 cups for a thinner sauce)
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 1/2 cups grated parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Melt the Butter
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the salted butter over low heat, ensuring it doesn’t brown or burn.
Make the Roux
Add the all-purpose flour and increase the heat to medium. Whisk the mixture continuously for about 2 minutes, allowing the flour to cook and achieve a light golden color. This step helps to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Combine with Half and Half
Slowly pour in the half and half while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Add the garlic powder and salt, ensuring they are evenly mixed into the base of the sauce.
Simmer and Add Parmesan Cheese
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously. Once the sauce starts to simmer and thicken slightly, add in the grated parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely, resulting in a smooth, creamy sauce.
Adjust Consistency
As the sauce thickens, you can adjust the consistency to your preference. For a thinner sauce, add more half and half or reserved pasta water. If you prefer a thicker sauce, sprinkle in additional parmesan cheese and let it simmer briefly.
Serve and Garnish
Serve the Alfredo sauce warm. Use it as a dip, pizza sauce, or pour it generously over your favorite pasta. For an optional touch, garnish with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.

Notes

Storage Tips: Store leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat in small increments over low heat, adding a splash of milk or half and half to restore its creamy consistency.
Best Pairings: This sauce pairs perfectly with fettuccine pasta, grilled chicken, shrimp, or steamed broccoli.
Thickening Alternative: Instead of increasing the parmesan cheese, you can add a small egg yolk to the hot sauce (off heat) to further thicken and enhance the richness.
Salt Sensitivity: Parmesan cheese can be salty, so adjust the salt in the recipe according to taste preferences.
Dietary Substitutes: For a lighter version, swap half and half with whole milk or a mixture of milk and heavy cream.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of the recipe
Calories: 220
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 370mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 45mg