Creamy Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Ingredients:

• Pasta: Fettuccine or penne (200g).
• White Sauce:
  • Butter (2 tbsp)
  • Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced)
  • All-purpose flour (2 tbsp)
  • Milk (2 cups, warm)
  • Heavy cream (½ cup)
  • Parmesan cheese (¾ cup, grated)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • Nutmeg (a pinch, optional)
• Add-ons:
  • Cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms (optional).
  • Parsley (chopped for garnish).

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Boil pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
2. Make the White Sauce:
   • In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
   • Stir in flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste.
   • Gradually add warm milk, whisking to prevent lumps.
   • Add cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, stirring until thickened.
   • Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
3. Combine and Serve:
   • Add cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
   • Mix in optional add-ons (chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms).
   • Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

This rich and creamy pasta is perfect for dinner or a special occasion, balancing the cheesy, garlicky flavor with a velvety texture.