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Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, blending the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the classic texture of spaghetti. This dish is versatile, crowd-pleasing, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re a fan of TikTok Spaghetti Alfredo trends or prefer a traditional approach, this recipe will guide you step by step.
Why you will love this recipe
I absolutely love this Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce Recipe because it’s the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. The creamy Alfredo sauce coats every strand of pasta, making each bite rich and satisfying. It’s incredibly versatile, too—you can customize it by adding your favorite proteins like ground beef, chicken, or seafood. What I find most appealing is how easy it is to make, yet it tastes like something you’d find at a high-end Italian restaurant. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe never fails to impress. Plus, the leftovers are just as good, making it a dish you’ll want to keep on repeat!
How to Make Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce
Ingredients to make Spaghetti with Alfredo
Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce Recipe:
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon nutmeg for depth
For the Spaghetti:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt for pasta water
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup cooked ground beef (for spaghetti Alfredo with ground beef)
- 1 cup grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions to Make Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain, toss with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously.
- Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and combined.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using).
Combine Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce:
- Toss the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.
- Mix well until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Optional Protein Additions:
- Stir in cooked ground beef, grilled chicken, or shrimp for extra flavor and protein.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.
Serve:
- Transfer to serving plates, garnish with parsley, and sprinkle extra Parmesan on top.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Tips to make perfect Spaghetti with Alfredo
- Fresh Parmesan is Key: Avoid pre-shredded cheese for the sauce, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente spaghetti holds up better in the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Customize the Flavors: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a handful of spinach for extra nutrients.
What to Serve with Spaghetti with Alfredo
Pairing is essential to elevate the dining experience. Here are suggestions:
Side Dishes:
- Garlic breadsticks
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini)
- Serve your spaghetti alongside these juicy Air Fryer Turkey Burgers for a fun and hearty meal
- Add a touch of spice to your meal with our Hot Soppressata as a delicious side or topping.
Desserts:
- Tiramisu
- Lemon panna cotta
- Chocolate mousse
- End your meal on a sweet note with our irresistible Crisco Chocolate Chip Cookies
Drinks:
- A crisp white wine like Chardonnay
- Sparkling water with lemon
- Iced tea for a non-alcoholic option
Variations of Spaghetti with Alfredo
TikTok variation Spaghetti Alfredo
This trendy variation involves layering cooked spaghetti with Alfredo sauce, marinara sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a baking dish. Bake it at 375°F (190°C) until the top is golden and bubbly. It’s a fusion of creamy Alfredo and tangy marinara that’s perfect for fans of rich baked pasta dishes.
Spaghetti Alfredo with Ground Beef
Add cooked and seasoned ground beef to the Alfredo sauce for a protein-packed meal. The savory flavor of the beef complements the creamy sauce beautifully, making it a hearty and satisfying option for dinner.
Seafood Alfredo
Elevate your spaghetti Alfredo by incorporating shrimp, scallops, or crab meat. Sauté the seafood in butter and garlic before adding it to the pasta. This luxurious variation is ideal for seafood lovers and makes a great dish for special occasions.
Vegetarian Alfredo
For a plant-based twist, add roasted vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to the Alfredo sauce. These vegetables not only add nutrients but also introduce a vibrant mix of flavors and textures to the dish.
Low-Carb Alfredo:
Replace spaghetti with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter, low-carb version. Pair this with a creamy Alfredo sauce to enjoy the rich flavors of the dish without the extra carbs, making it perfect for those on keto or low-carb diets.
FAQs while making Spaghetti with Alfredo
Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes, but homemade Alfredo sauce offers fresher and richer flavors.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream.
Can I freeze spaghetti Alfredo?
While it’s possible, the sauce might separate when thawed. For best results, freeze the sauce separately.
What pasta works best with Alfredo sauce?
While spaghetti is classic, fettuccine, linguine, or penne are also excellent options.
Can I make Alfredo sauce without heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk, half-and-half, or even a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter option. Just be sure to simmer the sauce gently to achieve the right thickness.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and add it slowly to the sauce over low heat. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the cheese to separate and create a grainy texture.
Is spaghetti Alfredo suitable for meal prep?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the spaghetti in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and combine when ready to serve, reheating gently to maintain the creamy texture.
Substitutes
- Cream: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter sauce.
- Butter: Margarine or olive oil can work in a pinch.
- Parmesan Cheese: Romano or Asiago cheese can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Spaghetti: Swap with gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 38g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fiber: 2g
Mastering how to make Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce Recipe doesn’t require professional chef skills—just quality ingredients and a love for Italian-inspired comfort food. Whether you’re indulging in a classic spaghetti Alfredo or experimenting with variations like TikTok Spaghetti Alfredo, this dish guarantees satisfaction for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients to make Spaghetti with Alfredo
For the Alfredo Sauce:
-
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon nutmeg for depth
For the Spaghetti:
-
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt for pasta water
Optional Add-ins:
-
- 1 cup cooked ground beef (for spaghetti Alfredo with ground beef)
- 1 cup grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Instructions to Make Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain, toss with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously.
- Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and combined.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using).
Combine Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce:
- Toss the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.
- Mix well until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Optional Protein Additions:
- Stir in cooked ground beef, grilled chicken, or shrimp for extra flavor and protein.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.
Serve:
- Transfer to serving plates, garnish with parsley, and sprinkle extra Parmesan on top.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
Tips to make perfect Spaghetti with Alfredo
- Fresh Parmesan is Key: Avoid pre-shredded cheese for the sauce, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente spaghetti holds up better in the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Customize the Flavors: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a handful of spinach for extra nutrients.
