Name: Alfredo Sauce with Cream
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-487129H45M19S
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Alfredo Sauce with Cream Cheese is incredibly easy to make and results in a velvety smooth sauce that’s rich without being too heavy. The cream cheese creates a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the Parmesan, while garlic adds a delicious depth of flavor. Whether you’re serving it with your favorite pasta, chicken, or vegetables, this Alfredo sauce is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple, quick, and a fantastic homemade alternative to store-bought versions!

Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Melt the Butter:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the Cream:
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir occasionally and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
Incorporate the Cream Cheese:
- Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese to the saucepan. Stir constantly until the cream cheese fully dissolves into the sauce, creating a smooth mixture.
Add the Parmesan:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
Season the Sauce:
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serve:
- Remove the sauce from the heat and pour it over your favorite cooked pasta, chicken, or vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes enough sauce for 4-6 servings of pasta.
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add More Cheese: For an even cheesier sauce, you can add a little extra Parmesan or even some mozzarella for a stretchy, gooey texture.
Garlic Parmesan Alfredo: Add extra minced garlic and a little garlic powder to deepen the garlic flavor.
Add Herbs: Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme can be added to the sauce for an herbaceous twist.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Low-Carb Version: Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or cream to bring it back to a creamy consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it on low heat, adding a little milk or cream if it becomes too thick.

2. Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can use milk instead of heavy cream, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy. For a lighter version, you can also use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cornstarch.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can try using other cheeses like Romano, Asiago, or Gruyère for a different flavor. Parmesan is traditional, but feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.

4. Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes, to make this dairy-free, use a non-dairy cream (like coconut cream or cashew cream) and vegan cream cheese. You can also use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.

5. Can I freeze the Alfredo sauce?

You can freeze the sauce, but the texture may change when reheated. To freeze, place the sauce in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat gently, adding a little milk or cream to restore the texture.

6. Can I use this sauce for something other than pasta?

Absolutely! This creamy Alfredo sauce is versatile and can be used as a topping for chicken, vegetables, or even as a dip for breadsticks or roasted potatoes.

7. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce. You can also add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce more quickly.

8. Can I add vegetables to this Alfredo sauce?

Yes, you can add sautéed vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to the sauce for added texture and flavor. Just toss them into the sauce after the Parmesan has melted.

9. How can I make the sauce richer?

For a richer sauce, increase the amount of cream cheese or add more heavy cream. You can also add a bit more butter to the sauce.

10. Can I make this sauce without garlic?

Yes, if you don’t want garlic, you can simply omit it from the recipe. The sauce will still be delicious, especially with the richness of the cream cheese and Parmesan.

Conclusion

This Creamy Alfredo Sauce with Cream Cheese is an easy and indulgent sauce that’s perfect for pasta, chicken, or vegetables. The cream cheese makes it extra rich and velvety, while the Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and less than 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a deliciously creamy sauce that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!