Ingredients
- ¾ of a 1-pound box of penne pasta (or any pasta you prefer)
- ½ cup butter
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper (to taste)
- Optional: Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Cook pasta according to package instructions (about 10–12 minutes). Drain and set aside. - Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
In a separate pot, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add garlic to the melted butter and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Add Cream & Cream Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and add the room-temperature cream cheese. Continue cooking over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce gently bubbles (but not boiling). - Add Cheese & Seasoning:
Stir in the parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, followed by salt and pepper to taste. Stir regularly until the cheeses melt completely into a smooth sauce. - Combine Pasta & Sauce:
Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. - Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Variations:
- Protein Add-ins: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for extra protein.
- Vegetables: Stir in sautéed spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spices: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or nutmeg for a more complex flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese, butter, and plant-based cheeses for a dairy-free version.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with adding Gouda, Asiago, or cream cheese for an extra twist on flavor.
- Storage & Reheating:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, or warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
