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Brown Butter Alfredo Sauce

Close-up of fettuccine pasta generously coated in creamy brown butter alfredo sauce and sprinkled with black pepper.
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Make a rich, nutty Alfredo sauce by browning the butter first. This simple technique adds depth to the classic cream and Parmesan sauce.

Ingredients

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  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 pound fettuccine or desired pasta

Instructions

  1. Cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, place the butter in a light-colored, medium saucepan over medium heat.
  3. Melt the butter completely. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally. The butter will foam, then the foam will subside. You will see small brown bits form at the bottom of the pan, and the butter will smell nutty. This takes about 5 to 8 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  4. Once the butter is golden brown and fragrant, immediately remove the pan from the heat. Do not let it cook further.
  5. Return the pan to low heat. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream until fully combined with the brown butter.
  6. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg, if using. Heat gently until the sauce is warm, but do not let it boil.
  7. Remove the pan from the heat. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  8. Toss the drained pasta immediately with the brown butter Alfredo sauce. Serve right away with extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • To prevent the sauce from separating, always add the cheese off the direct heat and whisk gently.
  • Use high-quality, freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best texture and flavor in this creamy parmesan brown butter sauce.
  • For a gourmet fettuccine sauce, toast a few tablespoons of slivered almonds or pine nuts in a dry skillet and sprinkle over the finished dish.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://rosatasty.com/brown-butter-alfredo-sauce-recipe/