Creamy Pantry Alfredo Sauce
This delightful Alfredo sauce is crafted using pantry staples, particularly evaporated milk, to deliver a creamy texture without the need for fresh cream. You'll find that this recipe balances convenience with deliciousness, making it a go-to option for busy weeknight dinners. My family has declared it a favorite, often claiming they prefer it over traditional restaurant Alfredo. This sauce pairs beautifully with any pasta, and optional additions like sautéed mushrooms and grilled chicken elevate the dish, making it a complete and satisfying meal. Give it a try, and you'll understand why it's become a beloved staple in our home!
5
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Evaporated milk
1 (12-ounce can, shaken)
Powdered milk
2 (tablespoons)
Butter
1/4 (cup)
Flour
2 (tablespoons)
Fresh grated parmesan cheese
3/4 (cup)
Garlic salt
1/2 (teaspoon)
Milk
1/2 (cup, to thin sauce)
Mushrooms
1 (cup, sliced, cooked in butter, drained (optional))
Grilled chicken
1 (cup, thinly sliced (optional))
Hot pasta
as needed (for serving)
Instructions
1
In a large bowl, combine the evaporated milk and powdered milk, mixing well to create a smooth blend. Set aside.
2
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux, cooking until it's bubbly and slightly golden.
3
Gradually whisk in the milk mixture into the roux, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Cook the sauce over medium heat until it begins to bubble, stirring often.
4
Lower the heat, then add the fresh grated parmesan cheese and garlic salt, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
5
If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in up to half a cup of regular milk until you reach your desired consistency.
6
If desired, add the optional sautéed mushrooms and/or grilled chicken pieces to the sauce. Stir gently to incorporate and heat through.
7
Serve immediately over hot pasta, garnishing with additional parmesan if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Pantry Alfredo Sauce?
It is a creamy sauce crafted using pantry staples like evaporated milk to deliver a rich texture without needing fresh cream.
Does this recipe require heavy cream?
No, this recipe uses a combination of evaporated milk and powdered milk to achieve creaminess instead of fresh heavy cream.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to provide 5 servings.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to combine the evaporated milk and powdered milk in a large bowl, mixing until smooth.
How do you make the roux for this alfredo?
Melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of flour, and whisk for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
Gradually stir in up to half a cup of regular milk until you reach your desired consistency.
When do I add the parmesan cheese?
Lower the heat and add the fresh grated parmesan cheese after the sauce has begun to bubble and the milk mixture is incorporated.
What type of milk is used as the base?
The base uses one 12-ounce can of evaporated milk mixed with 2 tablespoons of powdered milk.
Is there any seasoning in this sauce?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of garlic salt.
Can I add mushrooms to this dish?
Yes, the recipe suggests adding 1 cup of sliced mushrooms cooked in butter as an optional addition.
Is chicken a recommended addition?
Yes, adding 1 cup of thinly sliced grilled chicken is an optional step to make the dish a complete meal.
What kind of cheese is required?
The recipe requires 3/4 cup of fresh grated parmesan cheese.
How long should I whisk the butter and flour?
You should whisk the flour and butter continuously for about 1 to 2 minutes.
What should I serve this sauce with?
Serve the sauce immediately over hot pasta.
Why is this considered a pantry recipe?
It is called a pantry recipe because it utilizes shelf-stable items like evaporated milk and powdered milk instead of fresh dairy.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include alfredo sauce, sauces, easy recipes, pasta, pantry cooking, no-cream sauce, family dinner, comfort food, and quick meals.
What heat setting should be used for melting butter?
The butter should be melted over medium heat.
How should the evaporated milk be prepared before use?
The 12-ounce can of evaporated milk should be shaken before it is mixed with the powdered milk.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized under Sauces.
How do you ensure the sauce is smooth?
Gradually whisk the milk mixture into the roux and stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
Is this recipe good for busy weeknights?
Yes, the description notes it is a go-to option for busy weeknight dinners due to its convenience and speed.
Can I garnish the final dish?
Yes, you can garnish the served pasta with additional parmesan cheese if desired.
What specific salt is used for flavor?
The recipe specifically calls for garlic salt for seasoning.
How much butter is used?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of butter.
What amount of flour is needed?
2 tablespoons of flour are used to help create the roux for the sauce.
What is the texture of the sauce described as?
The sauce is described as having a delightful creamy texture.
When should the sauce be served?
The sauce should be served immediately once finished for the best results.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 ingredients listed, including optional items like mushrooms and chicken.
Should the cheese be added while the sauce is at high heat?
No, the instructions specify to lower the heat before stirring in the parmesan cheese.
How does this recipe compare to restaurant alfredo?
The description mentions that family members often claim they prefer this version over traditional restaurant Alfredo.