Print Philadelphia Cream Cheese Alfredo Sauce
If you love Alfredo sauce but are looking for an extra creamy and indulgent version, this Philadelphia cream cheese Alfredo sauce is the perfect choice. With its smooth, rich texture and tangy flavor, this sauce will take your pasta dishes to the next level. It’s quick, easy to make, and versatile enough to use in a variety of dishes.
Equipment
- A medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- Butter ¼ cup unsalted: This adds richness and smoothness. You can substitute olive oil for a lighter or dairy-free version.
- Philadelphia Cream Cheese 8 oz: The star of the recipe! This gives the Alfredo sauce its signature creaminess. You can use low-fat cream cheese if you want a lighter version.
- Garlic 2 cloves, minced: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor. Garlic powder (1 tsp) works if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand.
- Milk 1 cup: Milk helps thin out the sauce to your desired consistency. You can use whole milk for extra creaminess or a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk.
- Parmesan Cheese ½ cup, grated: Parmesan adds a sharp, cheesy flavor that complements the cream cheese. You can skip this if you’re making a dairy-free version or substitute with nutritional yeast.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste to balance out the flavors.
Instructions
- Step 1: Melt the Butter In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure the butter doesn’t burn.
- Step 2: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to overcook the garlic.
- Step 3: Add the Philadelphia cream cheese to the pan. Stir continuously with a whisk or spoon until the cream cheese is melted and combined with the butter.
- Step 4: Slowly pour the milk into the pan while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If you want a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of milk.
- Step 5: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and whisk until it melts into the sauce, creating a smooth, cheesy texture.
- Step 6: Finally, season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly, then remove from heat.
- Step 7: Serve the Philadelphia cream cheese Alfredo sauce immediately by tossing it with your favorite pasta, vegetables, or proteins. Enjoy the rich, creamy goodness!
Notes
Insider Tips for Success
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before adding it to the pan. This ensures a smoother sauce without any lumps.
- Avoid High Heat: Keep the heat on medium to avoid burning the sauce or causing the cream cheese to curdle.
- Adjust the Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the best flavor, use freshly grated parmesan cheese. Pre-grated varieties can sometimes have anti-caking agents that affect the texture.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore the creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Philadelphia cream cheese Alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with:- Fettuccine or Penne: Toss with your favorite gluten-free or traditional pasta.
- Grilled Chicken: Serve it over grilled chicken breast for a hearty and comforting meal.
- Shrimp Alfredo: Add sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist on the classic dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle the sauce over roasted broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus for a delicious side.
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