In this fettuccine Alfredo recipe we’ve recommended cooking the pasta until just shy of al dente, as it will continue to cook later on when tossed with the sauce. This helps to prevent the pasta from becoming soft and soggy in the final dish. This recipe should ideally be made with its namesake pasta, fettuccine, but if you want to explore other varieties we have a helpful guide to a number of pasta types and how to use them to inform your choice.
It’s a dish best served straight away as creamy sauces can thicken when they’re left to rest. Make sure you taste the sauce briefly before serving to adjust the seasoning. Some chefs will even add a sprinkling of nutmeg for a final flavor enhancer before plating.
The Roman Origins of Fettuccine Alfredo
Many wonder is fettuccine Alfredo Italian, and its origins actually go back to early 20th-century Rome where it was invented by Alfredo di Lelio. Allegedly he created the dish for his pregnant wife to make a simple and comforting meal for her. The original recipe was straightforward featuring fresh fettuccine tossed with butter and Parmesan cheese.
After Alfredo opened a restaurant in Rome, many Hollywood celebrities visited and tasted the dish, bringing the concept back to America. This is where the recipe was adapted to include heavy cream, extra cheese, and often garlic for a richer version.
Cream-based vs. Traditional Versions
As outlined in the brief synopsis of fettuccine Alfredo history above, the traditional version of the dish features only three ingredients. The cream-based version of the recipe that’s popular across America today was an adaptation of the original recipe, and is now commonly found in Italian-American restaurants.
Naturally, the cream-based Alfredo sauce is far richer and more indulgent and perfect for a comfort food dinner. However, both versions are built around quality, fresh grated cheese to create the right texture.
How to Serve Fettuccine Alfredo
Fettuccine Alfredo should be served immediately while the sauce is hot and creamy. You can enjoy this pasta dish on its own, or plate alongside grilled chicken and shrimp for a larger meal. It’s ideal for a quick and tasty midweek dinner, or for an Italian-inspired dinner party.
For more Italian cooking inspiration, take a look at our selection of the top 10 creamy pasta recipes you need to try, including creamy garlic chicken pasta.
