To Die For Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
This rich and creamy fettuccine Alfredo is an easy recipe even for beginner cooks, but its impressive enough for company.
How to Make Fettuccine Alfredo
Youll find a detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions below, but heres a quick overview of what to expect:
- Cook the pasta.
- Melt the butter and cream together on the stove, season, and stir in the cheese.
- Toss the pasta in the cheese sauce.
Ingredients
- 24 ounces dry fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup butter
- pint heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 dash garlic salt
- cup grated Romano cheese
- cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Gather all ingredients. Before you start, make sure you have everything you need. This will help things move smoothly.
- Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the sauce. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, then add the heavy cream. Stir to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic salt.
- Thicken the sauce. Increase the heat to medium and stir in the grated Romano and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses are fully melted, and the sauce thickens.
- Toss the pasta. Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy cheese sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!
What to Serve With Fettuccine Alfredo
If youre looking for ideas on what to pair with your creamy fettuccine Alfredo, here are some great options:
- Appetizers: Balsamic Bruschetta, Toasted Garlic Bread, Fried Stuffed Squash Blossoms
- Mix-ins: Chicken, shrimp, sausage, green peas, broccoli, mushrooms
- Side dishes: Classic Restaurant Caesar Salad, Gourmet Mushroom Risotto, Classic Tossed Salad
How to Store Fettuccine Alfredo
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight for up to three days. When youre ready to eat, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving of fettuccine Alfredo contains the following:
- Calories: 964
- Fat: 61g (78% of daily value)
- Saturated Fat: 37g (187% of daily value)
- Cholesterol: 184mg (61% of daily value)
- Sodium: 582mg (25% of daily value)
- Carbohydrates: 84g (31% of daily value)
- Dietary Fiber: 4g (14% of daily value)
- Protein: 24g (47% of daily value)
- Calcium: 303mg (23% of daily value)
- Iron: 3mg (19% of daily value)
- Potassium: 285mg (6% of daily value)

Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich and creamy Italian pasta dish that has gained widespread popularity across the world, particularly in the United States. Known for its indulgent flavors and velvety texture, this dish remains a beloved comfort food. The version presented here, "To Die For Fettuccine Alfredo," takes the classic dish and elevates it to a new level of creaminess and taste. But like most iconic dishes, it has a fascinating history and regional nuances that make it more than just pasta and cheese.
History and Origins of Fettuccine Alfredo
The story of Fettuccine Alfredo begins in Italy, where it was first created in the early 20th century by Alfredo di Lelio, a Roman chef. Legend has it that the dish was born out of necessityAlfredo created a simple pasta dish with butter and cheese to entice his pregnant wife to eat. The rich and comforting combination worked, and he later added the dish to his restaurant menu in Rome. This was around 1908, and it quickly became a hit with both locals and tourists.
It wasnt until the 1920s, when American tourists discovered it, that Fettuccine Alfredo gained worldwide fame. Hollywood stars like Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks visited Alfredos restaurant, and upon returning to the United States, they introduced the dish to a broader audience. Over time, the recipe evolved in America, with cream and garlic being addedtwo ingredients not traditionally used in Italys original version.
Regional Differences and Variations
While Fettuccine Alfredo is recognized as an Italian classic, it varies significantly between regions. In Italy, the dish is typically prepared without cream, relying on butter and cheese to create the sauce. Parmesan and Pecorino Romano are the preferred cheeses, and the pasta is often freshly made, rather than dried. The American version, however, often includes heavy cream, garlic, and sometimes even additional spices or herbs. This variation has become the norm in most Italian-American restaurants.
In Italy, the dish is considered more of a tourist attraction, with many Italians preferring simpler pasta dishes, such as Cacio e Pepe or Pasta alla Carbonara, that feature fewer ingredients but equally rich flavors.
Distinguishing Fettuccine Alfredo from Other Creamy Pasta Dishes
At first glance, Fettuccine Alfredo might seem similar to other creamy pasta dishes like Carbonara or Mac and Cheese, but there are key differences. Fettuccine Alfredo stands apart due to its rich sauce, made primarily from butter, heavy cream, and cheese. The simplicity of the ingredients is what gives it its unique flavor profile. Unlike Carbonara, which uses eggs as a base for its creamy sauce, or Mac and Cheese, which incorporates a variety of cheeses and often a breadcrumb topping, Fettuccine Alfredo is a straightforward, silky dish that focuses on the luxurious combination of butter and cheese.
Where Fettuccine Alfredo is Typically Served
Fettuccine Alfredo is a popular choice in both Italian restaurants and home kitchens worldwide. In the United States, it is often served as a main course or as a side dish to complement grilled meats like chicken or shrimp. Its especially common in Italian-American establishments, where it is typically found on the menu under Pasta Dishes or Specialties.
In Italy, however, Fettuccine Alfredo is not as commonly found outside of tourist spots, as it is not a traditional part of the regional pasta repertoire. Instead, you'll more frequently encounter classic pasta dishes like Pasta alla Pomodoro, Pasta Puttanesca, or Pasta alla Bolognese.
Interesting Facts About Fettuccine Alfredo
- The original version of Fettuccine Alfredo in Italy did not include garlic or cream. It was simply butter, cheese, and pasta.
- In Italy, the dish is known as "Fettuccine al Burro," meaning fettuccine with butter. The addition of heavy cream and garlic is a later American innovation.
- The popularity of the dish soared in the U.S. after Hollywood stars visited Alfredos restaurant in Rome, and it remains a staple in Italian-American cuisine.
- Some variations of Fettuccine Alfredo incorporate meat, such as chicken, shrimp, or even bacon, adding an extra layer of richness and flavor.
- While often considered a "guilty pleasure," Fettuccine Alfredo can be made lighter by reducing the amount of butter or using alternatives like olive oil or non-dairy cream.
FAQ about To Die For Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
Comments
Nicole Clark
07/08/2024 11:03:12 PM
I want to share my thoughts about my own recipe following some of the reviews... Just to clarify, this is a traditional Italian recipe for Fettuccine Alfredo, not the Americanized version from Olive Garden. That's why it doesn't include garlic, as garlic was added to the dish in the US. It was intentional to exclude garlic, and I followed the recipe correctly. I appreciate all the positive feedback received! Erin
Sharon Torres
01/17/2024 08:51:58 AM
I decided to try this recipe based on its excellent reviews, and I was not disappointed. The flavors were really incredible. I adjusted the recipe to serve 4 people, but I found that the amount of pasta called for was excessive, especially if you prefer a saucier dish. My suggestion is to follow the sauce portion of the recipe but adjust the pasta amount based on the package instructions. I'm a garlic lover, so I added 5 minced cloves to the sauce, which gave it a great flavor. It's important to keep an eye on the sauce while cooking and stir frequently to prevent it from sticking and curdling. I also incorporated sautéed chicken strips seasoned with butter and Lawry's garlic salt to enhance the dish's saltiness, as I found the sauce a bit on the milder side. I tried making a lighter version of this recipe with margarine and half-and-half to cut calories, but the consistency wasn't as creamy or satisfying. If you're aiming for a lower-calorie option, this might not be the best recipe for that. My husband, who adores alfredo, believes this is the best he's ever had. We used to think Olive Garden had the top alfredo, but now we'll be preparing this at home. This recipe is straightforward, and I appreciate that all the ingredients are easy to find and that it doesn't require eggs.
Melissa Scott
10/31/2024 06:25:13 PM
I find that there is too much butter in this recipe. As someone from Sicily who has been making this dish for over 30 years, I use 1 stick of melted butter in a 12" frying pan over medium to low heat. I then add 16 ounces of partially cooked fettuccine noodles and ensure they are coated well with the butter. It's crucial to use imported Parmesan cheese instead of domestic. Instead of heavy cream, I opt for half & half. After coating the noodles with melted butter in the frying pan, I pour in enough half & half to nearly cover them and bring it to a gentle boil while stirring constantly. I then turn off the heat and gradually add the cheeses, making sure not to overdo it to avoid a paste-like consistency. A sprinkle of freshly ground pepper and nutmeg adds a final touch. Remember to turn off the heat to avoid adding too much cheese. Enjoy your meal!
Angela Flores
12/01/2022 04:17:33 AM
Tasty! I substituted fresh grated garlic for garlic salt and reduced the amount of pasta to make it extra saucy. Also, just a heads up, 3/4 of a pint is equal to 1 1/2 cups.
Robert Gonzalez
08/05/2022 08:51:55 PM
I have made this recipe countless times now, both plain and with added chicken or shrimp. When I add protein, I season it with salt, pepper, and garlic, then cook it in a bit of butter before incorporating it back into the sauce. I prefer using garlic powder instead of garlic salt so I can add more, as my family loves garlic. I appreciate that this recipe doesn't call for flour, in my opinion, it doesn't need it. Overall, this recipe is absolutely delicious and definitely a keeper. Note: for those struggling, 3/4 pint equals 1 and a half cups of cream. I have used either shredded or grated fresh parmesan cheese based on availability and price, with no noticeable difference in taste. When adding the cheese, I recommend keeping the heat low and stirring continuously to prevent clumping. I have found this method produces great results. I hope this advice helps those who have not achieved the desired outcome.
Joseph Davis
01/06/2025 11:45:50 PM
I found this recipe very simple to make. I scaled down the portions to suit my small family, reducing the butter to 3/4 stick and adding more garlic powder for extra flavor. I paired it with pasta, sautéed onions, broccoli, and prosciutto. The result was absolutely delicious!
Kimberly Clark
11/10/2023 01:27:09 AM
This sauce is really simple to whip up, but I personally feel that a whole cup of butter is excessive as it doesn't blend in well upon reheating - it tends to just stay on the surface. I've tried using just 1/8th cup of butter instead, and it works much better while still maintaining the fantastic taste.
Linda Roberts
03/11/2023 08:55:24 AM
This has got to be one of the best Fettuccine recipes I've ever tried! It was incredibly easy and quick to prepare for dinner. We decided to enhance the dish by adding small frozen cooked shrimp to the sauce, which really helped balance out the salty flavor. While we used canned grated cheese this time, I plan to opt for freshly grated cheese in my next attempt. Despite using only half the amount of pasta recommended and cooking it for longer, the sauce thickened beautifully over time. This recipe is a keeper, and we are definitely making it again!
Lisa Rivera
11/28/2022 02:36:30 AM
Great experience! Initially, I found it a bit too buttery on my first try. However, I later discovered that I hadn't used the correct amount of pasta. On my next attempt, I adjusted by using one and a half cubes instead of two. It's important to keep stirring to prevent the cheese from sticking to the pot. I added a bit more garlic salt for extra flavor. Overall, it was fantastic! Watch out Olive Garden! 😊
Charles Torres
03/05/2023 06:15:38 PM
Simple yet delightful alfredo. Absolutely hits the spot. We enhance it with freshly pressed garlic and fragrant parsley.
Rebecca Wilson
11/07/2023 10:12:13 PM
I modified the recipe by using 1 pint of heavy cream for additional servings, reducing the butter to slightly less than 3/4 cup, and including 1/2 tsp of garlic powder and a pinch of pepper. I used a blend of 1 cup of Parmesan and Romano cheeses, along with an additional 1/4 cup of Parmesan. Upon noticing that the sauce didn't thicken after adding the cheese, I took out about 1 cup of the sauce and mixed in 1 tsp of cornstarch. Rather than returning it to the pot, I used this thickened sauce for my first two servings. I combined the cooked fettuccine with a small amount of olive oil in a pan and incorporated the thickened sauce, omitting the need for extra cheese. I served it alongside garlic bread topped with Parmesan. It was excellent!
Benjamin Scott
12/01/2023 10:26:57 AM
I believe this recipe is fantastic! You can easily adjust it to suit your taste preferences. However, in my opinion, the recipe calls for a bit too much butter. I am a beginner in cooking, but I am thoroughly enjoying the process of making it!
Kenneth Thompson
10/01/2024 12:13:14 PM
Haven't tried it yet, but it looks promising! - Matt McCabe
Larry Lee
10/13/2024 11:57:49 PM
The fettuccine was tasty, no doubt about it. However, I might reduce the amount of butter next time. Reheating the leftovers was a bit of a disaster for me. I attempted the microwave first, but that didn't go well. Then, I tried warming it up slowly on the stove in a saucepan, but that also failed. I think my solution for next time will be to halve the recipe so that we can finish it all in one go for dinner.
Frank Taylor
08/15/2023 12:30:04 PM
I've been preparing a version of this fettuccine alfredo for almost 3 years now, and it never fails to impress! I began making my own because store-bought alfredo sauce never quite hit the mark for me, and finding a restaurant that serves a consistently delicious alfredo without breaking the bank is a rare find. Overall, I have adored this recipe for quite some time now! (I suggest adding the butter gradually, 1/4 stick at a time, as I usually only use between 1/4 and 1/2 a stick, which helps it reheat better)
Thomas Mitchell
12/21/2024 10:32:03 AM
Black or white ground pepper brings an amazing flavor to dishes.
Melissa Hall
05/07/2023 06:02:28 AM
No modifications made. I stuck to the recipe as instructed and it turned out perfectly.
Jerry Davis
04/14/2023 02:25:27 AM
I enhanced the dish with fresh herbs from my garden, chicken, broccoli, and mushrooms, along with a touch more garlic salt. Absolutely delicious!
Emily Wilson
05/30/2023 05:44:11 PM
Made it exactly as directed, but I decided to add broccoli. The result was absolutely delicious.
Patrick Edwards
02/17/2024 04:42:11 AM
The dish turned out to be excellent and quite simple to prepare. Since it was my first attempt, I was unsure about the outcome, but it surpassed all my expectations and was truly mind-blowing.