COPYCAT OLIVE GARDEN ALFREDO SAUCE
Creamy • Buttery • Ready in 20 Minutes
Ingredients
For the Alfredo Sauce
6 tablespoons salted butter
1 tablespoon minced garlic (fresh is best)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1¼ cups heavy whipping cream
1½ cups whole milk
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (optional but recommended)
For the Pasta
16 oz (1 lb) fettuccine pasta
Water + salt (for boiling)
For Garnish
Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
Add 1–2 tablespoons salt to the water.
Cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.
2️⃣ Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30–45 seconds, just until fragrant (do not brown).
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3️⃣ Add the Cream & Milk
Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, then the whole milk.
Keep whisking until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken (about 4–5 minutes).
Lower the heat to medium-low.
4️⃣ Season & Add Cheese
Stir in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.
Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until thick and creamy.
If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk.
5️⃣ Combine Pasta & Sauce
Add the cooked fettuccine directly into the sauce.
Toss gently until every strand is coated in creamy Alfredo goodness.
Simmer together for 1–2 minutes for best flavor.
Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley
Add extra Parmesan
Serve hot with garlic bread or salad
Pro Tips (Just Like Olive Garden!)
Always use freshly grated Parmesan (not canned)
Do not boil the sauce — gentle heat keeps it smooth
Sauce thickens more as it cools
Optional Add-Ins
Grilled chicken
Shrimp
Broccoli or mushrooms
Steak slices
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheat slowly on low heat with a splash of milk
