Alfredo sauce with whole milk
Alfredo sauce with whole milk offers the perfect balance of creaminess and lightness. It’s an excellent option for those who love the richness of Alfredo but want a lighter alternative to heavy cream-based sauces.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- Butter ¼ cup unsalted: Adds richness to the sauce. If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
- Whole Milk 1 ½ cups: The key ingredient that makes this sauce creamy yet lighter. If you want a dairy-free option, almond milk or oat milk can work, but the texture may vary.
- Parmesan Cheese ¾ cup, grated: Provides the signature cheesy flavor. For a sharper taste, try pecorino romano, or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Garlic 2 cloves, minced: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor. Garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch (1 tsp).
- Flour or Cornstarch 1 tbsp: A small amount of flour or cornstarch helps thicken the sauce. Be sure to use gluten-free flour if needed.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste. These basic seasonings balance out the flavors and enhance the sauce’s creaminess.
Instructions
- Melt the Butter: Start by melting the butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally to avoid burning the butter.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Create a Roux: Sprinkle the flour (or cornstarch if gluten-free) into the pan and stir continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux. This step helps to thicken the sauce.
- Add the Whole Milk: Slowly pour the whole milk into the pan, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Keep stirring as the sauce starts to thicken.
- Stir in the Parmesan Cheese: Stir the shredded parmesan cheese in once the sauce starts to thicken. Continue whisking until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season and Simmer: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper. Let it simmer on low heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve with Pasta or Desired Dish: Remove the sauce from heat and toss immediately with your favorite pasta or pour over vegetables, chicken, or seafood. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Insider Tips for Success
- Use Whole Milk for Creaminess: While whole milk is the best option for creaminess, you can use other milk alternatives, but keep in mind that they might result in a thinner sauce.
- Whisk Continuously: To avoid lumps, make sure to whisk the sauce constantly, especially when adding the flour and milk.
- Simmer for Thickness: Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to thicken. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little extra milk if needed to restore the creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Alfredo sauce with whole milk pairs beautifully with:- Pasta: Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well.
- Seafood: Try pairing with shrimp or scallops for a restaurant-quality meal.
- Grilled Chicken: Pour over grilled chicken breast for a comforting dinner.
- Vegetables: Use it as a sauce for steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus.
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