Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce with Penne: A Restaurant-Worthy Dish at Home

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt.
2. Cook the penne according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute (be careful not to burn the garlic).
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let the cream simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
4. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
5. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper

, and a touch of nutmeg, if using. Continue stirring until everything is well combined and the sauce reaches a creamy consistency. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of whole milk or reserved pasta water to adjust the thickness.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.
2. Toss the pasta gently to coat it thoroughly with the sauce.
3. Allow the pasta to simmer in the sauce for 1-2 minutes, ensuring every piece is well coated and warm.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the Alfredo-coated penne to a serving dish or individual plates.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips for the Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce compared to pre-packaged cheese.
• Avoid Overheating: Keep the sauce on low to medium heat to prevent the cream and cheese from curdling.
• Make It Your Own: Add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or steamed broccoli for a heartier version of this dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce with Penne recipe brings comfort and elegance to your table. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, like birthdays or anniversaries. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish.