Name: Alfredo sauce with cream cheese
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick); 4 ounces cream cheese (softened); 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for a hint of warmth)

Growing up, one of my favorite comfort foods was a steaming plate of pasta coated in rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. The velvety texture, combined with the indulgent flavors of Parmesan and cream, always brought a sense of warmth and satisfaction. In this blog post, I’ll share my recipe for Alfredo sauce with cream cheese, a twist on the classic that adds a delightful tanginess and extra creaminess to the dish. Let’s dive into the world of creamy goodness!

Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Table of Contents

Ingredients:

8 ounces fettuccine or pasta of choice
1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cultural Significance and History:

Alfredo sauce, also known as Fettuccine Alfredo, traces its origins to Rome, Italy. Legend has it that Alfredo di Lelio, a Roman restaurateur, created this rich and creamy sauce to please his pregnant wife’s cravings. The dish gained international popularity when Hollywood stars visiting Rome fell in love with it and brought the recipe back to the United States. Today, Alfredo sauce is a beloved Italian-American classic.

Nutritional Information:

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Calories per serving: Approximately 500 kcal
Total Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 25g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 500mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 15g

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations:

Pasta Variations: You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or linguine.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Garlic Lover’s Twist: Add minced garlic to the sauce for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions with Images:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the softened cream cheese to the melted butter, stirring until smooth and creamy.
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine with the butter and cream cheese.
Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it melts and the sauce is smooth.
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Garnish the Alfredo pasta with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Occasions:

Creamy Alfredo sauce with cream cheese is perfect for various occasions:

Weeknight Dinners: A quick and comforting meal for busy evenings.
Date Nights: Impress your loved one with a homemade Italian dinner.
Family Gatherings: A crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Overcooking the Sauce: Be careful not to overheat the sauce, as it can cause the cream cheese to curdle.
Not Seasoning Adequately: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients:

Cream Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, but use in moderation due to its high fat content.
Parmesan Cheese: Rich in calcium and adds a burst of umami flavor to the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools:

Large skillet or saucepan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Pasta pot with colander
Serving platter or individual plates

Flavor Profile and Texture:

Creamy, velvety, and indulgent, with a perfect balance of tanginess from the cream cheese and richness from the Parmesan.

Best Occasions to Serve:

Creamy Alfredo sauce with cream cheese is best enjoyed during cozy dinners at home, romantic evenings, or gatherings with friends and family.

Crafting a homemade Alfredo sauce with cream cheese elevates your pasta dish to a whole new level of decadence. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your repertoire of comfort foods. Bon appétit!

Alfredo sauce with cream cheese

Alfredo sauce, also known as Fettuccine Alfredo, traces its origins to Rome, Italy. Legend has it that Alfredo di Lelio, a Roman restaurateur, created this rich and creamy sauce to please his pregnant wife's cravings. The dish gained international popularity when Hollywood stars visiting Rome fell in love with it and brought the recipe back to the United States. Today, Alfredo sauce is a beloved Italian-American classic.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Course Appetizer

Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter 1 stick
4 ounces cream cheese softened
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional, for a hint of warmth

Instructions

Step 1: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
Step 2: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine it with the melted butter. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, being careful not to let it boil.
Step 3: Add the softened cream cheese to the saucepan and whisk it into the cream mixture. Continue whisking until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring constantly. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into the sauce, and it thickens to your desired consistency. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Season the Alfredo sauce with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Step 6: Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, remove it from the heat. It should coat the back of a spoon.
Step 7: Serve the Alfredo Sauce with Cream Cheese immediately over your preferred pasta, such as fettuccine or penne. You can also add grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for added flavor.