Creamy Garlic Alfredo Sauce
Indulge in the luxurious, velvety texture of this Creamy Garlic Alfredo Sauce, a perfect addition to any pasta dish. This recipe is incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor, thanks to the rich combination of cream cheese, parmesan, and butter. You can easily elevate this sauce by adding sautéed shrimp, smoked ham, or caramelized onions – the options are endless! Whether you're cooking for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this Alfredo Sauce will impress every time with its creamy goodness and customizable nature.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Philadelphia Cream Cheese
8 ounces (Cut into small cubes)
Milk
1 cup (None)
Fresh Shredded Parmesan Cheese
1 cup (None)
Butter
1/4-1/2 cup (Cut into slices)
Instructions
1
Begin by cutting the cream cheese into roughly 10 small cubes for easier melting.
2
Slice the butter into five equal pieces to facilitate quick melting.
3
In a large saucepan, combine the cream cheese, milk, parmesan cheese, and butter.
4
Place the saucepan over low heat to gently warm the ingredients. Stir frequently to ensure a smooth mixture and prevent sticking.
5
Continue to stir until all ingredients are completely melted and the sauce reaches a creamy consistency. Avoid allowing it to boil.
6
Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, remove it from the heat.
7
Serve immediately over your favorite pasta, and consider adding sautéed shrimp or vegetables for an extra boost of flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Garlic Alfredo Sauce?
It is a luxurious, velvety pasta sauce made with a rich combination of cream cheese, parmesan, and butter.
What are the main ingredients for this Alfredo sauce?
The four main ingredients are Philadelphia Cream Cheese, milk, fresh shredded parmesan cheese, and butter.
How should I prepare the cream cheese for melting?
Cut the 8 ounces of cream cheese into roughly 10 small cubes to make melting easier.
Why should the butter be sliced before cooking?
Slicing the butter into five equal pieces facilitates a quicker and more even melting process.
What is the first step in combining the ingredients?
In a large saucepan, combine the cubed cream cheese, milk, parmesan cheese, and sliced butter.
What heat setting should be used to cook the sauce?
The saucepan should be placed over low heat to gently warm the ingredients without burning them.
Is frequent stirring necessary for this recipe?
Yes, you should stir frequently to ensure a smooth mixture and to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the pan.
Can I let the Alfredo sauce boil?
No, you should avoid allowing the sauce to boil to maintain its velvety, creamy consistency.
How do I know when the sauce is ready to serve?
The sauce is ready once all ingredients are completely melted and it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
When should I remove the sauce from the heat source?
Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately after the sauce has become smooth and creamy.
How should the Creamy Garlic Alfredo Sauce be served?
It should be served immediately over your favorite choice of pasta.
Can I add protein to this Alfredo sauce?
Yes, you can elevate the dish by adding sautéed shrimp or smoked ham for extra flavor.
Are vegetables a good addition to this recipe?
Absolutely, adding caramelized onions or other sautéed vegetables can enhance the sauce.
Is this recipe customizable?
Yes, this sauce is highly customizable with various proteins, vegetables, and different pasta types.
What makes this sauce particularly rich and velvety?
The combination of full-fat cream cheese and butter provides a deep, rich, and velvety texture.
How many ingredients does this recipe require?
This simple recipe requires only 4 basic ingredients: cream cheese, milk, parmesan, and butter.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is designed as a quick and easy cooking recipe, making it perfect for busy family dinners.
Can I use this sauce for special occasions?
Yes, its luxurious texture and impressive flavor make it suitable for both casual and special occasions.
What type of parmesan is recommended?
The recipe calls specifically for 1 cup of fresh shredded parmesan cheese.
How much milk is used in this recipe?
The recipe requires exactly 1 cup of milk.
How much butter is needed for the sauce?
You can use between 1/4 and 1/2 cup of butter depending on how rich you want the sauce to be.
Is this sauce considered an Italian-style dish?
Yes, it is categorized as an Italian pasta sauce.
What type of cream cheese is suggested?
The recipe specifically mentions using Philadelphia brand Cream Cheese.
Does the sauce require a long simmering time?
No, it only needs to be heated until the ingredients are fully melted and smooth.
What is the key to preventing the sauce from sticking?
Maintaining a low heat and stirring frequently are the best ways to prevent sticking.
Can I use any type of pasta with this sauce?
Yes, the sauce can be served over any of your favorite pasta varieties.
What is the importance of cubing the cheese beforehand?
Cubing the cream cheese ensures that it melts quickly and evenly into the milk.
Is this a comfort food recipe?
Yes, its creamy, cheese-heavy profile makes it a classic comfort food.
How many servings does this recipe make?
While not explicitly stated, the ingredient amounts typically yield enough sauce for a standard box of pasta serving 4-6 people.
What is the overall texture of the finished sauce?
The finished sauce is described as having a luxurious, velvety, and creamy texture.