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barefoot contessa alfredo pasta copycat recipe

Barefoot Contessa Alfredo Pasta Recipe 

Sharon Brown
Barefoot Contessa Alfredo Pasta is a creamy and indulgent dish that pairs beautifully with a few well-chosen sides to complete the meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6
Calories 266 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot

Ingredients
  

  • 1 stick unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lb. fettuccine pasta
  • 1 cup rich double cream
  • 2 cups finely shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • A pinch of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions
 

  • Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the fettuccine and cook per package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.
  • In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant; be careful not to burn it.
  • Pour in the rich double cream and whisk everything together. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes. This will help thicken and combine the flavors.
  • Gradually add the finely shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Whisk until creamy and smooth. If it seems too thick, slowly add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  • Add a pinch of salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Taste and adjust the seasonings, if necessary. Consider this step an art—you want a blend that dances on your palate!
  • Add the cooked fettuccine to your sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring every noodle is coated in that heavenly cheese sauce. This is where the magic happens!

Notes

  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Pay attention to cooking time so it remains al dente. You’ll cook it further in the sauce, absorbing flavors.
  • Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic elevates your dish far beyond pre-minced options.
  • Grate Your Cheese: Grating the cheese yourself allows for better melting compared to pre-packaged shredded cheese.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water is your secret weapon. It helps you achieve that perfect creamy texture.
  • Adjust to Taste: Taste your sauce before serving. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle in more salt, pepper, or nutmeg as needed.

Nutrition

Calories: 266kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 11gFat: 12.4gSaturated Fat: 6.4gCholesterol: 34mgSodium: 367mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2g
Keyword barefoot contessa alfredo pasta recipe 
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