One-Pan Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich and creamy pasta dish that’s incredibly easy to make. This recipe takes minimal effort, and cleanup is a breeze, as everything is cooked in just one skillet. By allowing the pasta to cook directly in the sauce, it absorbs all the delicious flavors, creating a silky, restaurant-quality Alfredo right at home. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooks in just one pan, making cleanup quick and easy.
- Creamy and Flavorful: Packed with a smooth, rich flavor that coats every noodle.
- No Need to Boil Pasta Separately: The pasta cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing all the flavor.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: A comforting and satisfying dish that’s great for casual meals or dinner parties.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fettuccine pasta
- Unsalted butter
- Garlic (minced)
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth (or water)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Nutmeg (optional, adds a warm depth)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
1. Melt Butter:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
2. Add Liquid:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth (or water), stirring to combine. Let the mixture come to a simmer, which will help the flavors meld together.
3. Cook the Pasta:
Add the uncooked fettuccine directly into the skillet. Stir occasionally, making sure the pasta doesn’t stick together. Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for about 12-15 minutes, or until it’s tender and the sauce has thickened.
4. Stir in Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted and the sauce becomes smooth. Add salt and black pepper to taste, and if desired, a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle warmth.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off the dish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top. Serve immediately, and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal that’s sure to satisfy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Chicken Alfredo: Add grilled chicken breast to make this a heartier meal.
- Seafood Twist: Stir in shrimp or scallops for a delicious seafood version.
- Vegetarian Option: Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for a vegetable-packed dish.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter, lower-fat option.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or Pecorino Romano for a richer, cheesier flavor.
Storage/Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate when thawed.
- Reheating: Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to a creamy consistency.
One Pan Fettuccine Alfredo
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the uncooked fettuccine and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens (about 12-15 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg (optional).
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can use milk, but the sauce will be thinner. If you do, consider adding a bit more Parmesan cheese to thicken it up.
Do I need to cook the pasta separately?
No! The pasta cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
What’s the best Parmesan cheese to use?
Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal as it melts better and has the best flavor. Avoid pre-shredded Parmesan, as it often contains additives that affect the melting quality.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon can be great additions to make the dish even more filling.
How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a bit more chicken broth or cream while stirring to bring it back to the right consistency.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with other pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is nutmeg necessary?
Nutmeg is optional, but it does add a nice subtle warmth and depth to the sauce, enhancing its flavor.
How do I make this gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can reheat it by adding a little extra cream to maintain its creamy consistency.
What sides go well with Fettuccine Alfredo?
Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables are perfect companions to this creamy pasta.
Conclusion
One-Pan Fettuccine Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and minimal effort required, it’s the ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and the best part? Cleanup is a breeze! Give this indulgent recipe a try, and savor the creamy goodness of homemade Alfredo in just 30 minutes.