Name: Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 pint (2 cups) heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional); Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish); Cooked pasta of choice (fettuccine recommended)

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This copycat Olive Garden Alfredo sauce is everything I want in a creamy pasta dish — rich, silky, cheesy, and full of comforting flavor. It takes just 20 minutes to make with a handful of ingredients, and the result tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen. Whether I’m drizzling it over fettuccine, spooning it onto sautéed veggies, or using it as a dipping sauce, this homemade Alfredo never disappoints.

Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Ingredients

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

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 pint (2 cups) heavy cream

1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth and depth)

Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Cooked pasta of choice (fettuccine recommended)

Directions

I melt the butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

Then I add the garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until it's fragrant — I make sure not to brown it.

I pour in the heavy cream and let it come to a gentle simmer, stirring often.

Once it's simmering, I reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese a bit at a time, mixing until it’s smooth and melted.

I season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if I’m using it.

I let it simmer for another 3–5 minutes on low until it thickens slightly.

I take it off the heat and pour it over hot cooked pasta right away. A sprinkle of parsley finishes it off beautifully.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: About 310 kcal per ¼ cup serving

Variations

Add protein: I sometimes stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta to make it a full meal.

Lighter version: For a slightly lighter take, I swap half of the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half — the texture won’t be quite as rich, but it’s still creamy.

Extra cheesy: I mix in a bit of Romano or Asiago cheese for a stronger flavor twist.

Herbed Alfredo: A touch of Italian seasoning or basil adds a fragrant depth.

Spicy kick: I add a pinch of red pepper flakes if I’m in the mood for heat.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, I use a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen it up and prevent it from separating. I don’t recommend freezing this sauce — the texture tends to break once thawed.

FAQs

How can I prevent the Alfredo sauce from clumping or separating?

I always add the cheese gradually and stir constantly over low heat. Using freshly grated Parmesan also helps it melt more smoothly.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, I’ve used whole milk in a pinch, but the sauce turns out thinner. For a better balance, I mix milk with a bit of butter or cream cheese.

What type of Parmesan works best?

I stick with freshly grated Parmesan from a block. Pre-shredded or powdered cheese doesn’t melt well and can make the sauce grainy.

Is nutmeg really necessary?

Not at all, but I like the subtle warmth it adds. It’s traditional in Alfredo sauce, but completely optional.

What pasta pairs best with this sauce?

Fettuccine is the classic choice, but I’ve used linguine, penne, or even ravioli — anything that holds the sauce well works.

Conclusion

Making Olive Garden’s Alfredo sauce at home is easier than I ever imagined. It’s rich, comforting, and incredibly satisfying — just what I need for a cozy dinner or a special meal. With fresh ingredients and a few simple steps, I get restaurant-quality flavor right from my kitchen. Whether I keep it classic with fettuccine or get creative with add-ins, this recipe is a staple I return to again and again.

Recipe:

Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This copycat Olive Garden Alfredo sauce is rich, creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavor. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect over pasta, vegetables, or as a dipping sauce.

Instructions

Melt the butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
Add the garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, without browning.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring often.
Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using.
Let the sauce simmer on low for another 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Remove from heat and pour over hot cooked pasta. Garnish with parsley if desired.