Indulge in the rich, decadent comfort of creamy Alfredo fettuccine, a dish perfectly suited for a festive Christmas gathering or a cozy night in. This classic pasta dish elevates simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors, with the creamy, buttery sauce clinging perfectly to each strand of fettuccine. Imagine the aroma of garlic and Parmesan cheese filling your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The velvety texture of the sauce, combined with the satisfying chew of the pasta, will leave you wanting more. This recipe is surprisingly easy to master, even for novice cooks.
Forget complicated techniques and lengthy ingredient lists; this recipe prioritizes simplicity and deliciousness. We'll guide you through each step, ensuring a flawlessly creamy and flavorful Alfredo sauce every time. Ready to create a truly unforgettable Christmas meal? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Blender
- Colander
- Casserole dish
- Oven
Ingredients
- Fettuccine pasta: 500g
- Water
- Onion: 1/4
- Bay leaves: 2
- Salt: 1 tablespoon
- Oil: a splash
- Granulated broth: 1 tablespoon
- Nutmeg: a pinch
- Basil: a pinch
- Oregano: a pinch
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
- Milk: approximately 1 liter
- Cream cheese (Philadelphia type): 180g
- Butter: 1/2 stick (approximately 45g)
- Ham: 5 slices (cut into small squares)
- Parsley: a little, chopped
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pasta and Sauce
- Boil water in a pot with 1/4 onion, 2 bay leaves, and 1 tablespoon of salt for 5 minutes.
- Add fettuccine pasta to the boiling water and cook for 8-10 minutes on medium heat with a splash of oil to prevent sticking.
- While pasta cooks, blend 1/4 onion, 1 tablespoon granulated broth, a pinch of nutmeg, a pinch of basil, a pinch of oregano, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 liter of milk, and 180g cream cheese until smooth.
Step 2. Combine and Thicken the Sauce
- Drain the cooked pasta and set aside.
- Melt 1/2 stick of butter (approximately 45g) in a pan.
- Add the blended white sauce mixture to the melted butter and stir until it boils and thickens.
- Add the cooked pasta and ham (cut into small squares) to the white sauce and stir to combine.
Step 3. Bake to Perfection
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a buttered casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (approximately 400°F) for 15-20 minutes.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (optional) before serving.
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Tips
- The pasta should be cooked al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
- The white sauce should have a creamy consistency, not too thick.
- Feel free to add other cheeses, such as Manchego or Gouda, for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 2800-3200
- Fat: 150-180g
- Carbs: 250-300g
- Protein: 70-80g
FAQs
1. Can I make this Alfredo sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before tossing with the pasta.
2. What kind of Parmesan cheese is best for this recipe?
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese often contains cellulose which can affect the sauce's creaminess.
This Creamy Alfredo Fettuccine recipe is the perfect addition to your Christmas menu, guaranteed to impress your guests with its rich flavor and elegant simplicity. Enjoy the warm, comforting taste of this classic dish, a true celebration of the season. Happy cooking!