Classic Fettuccine Alfredo
An authentic and simple Roman dish featuring fresh fettuccine coated in a rich, emulsified sauce made from butter, Parmigiano Reggiano, and starchy pasta water. This recipe stays true to the original, foregoing cream for a lighter, more elegant sauce.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g Fresh fettuccine(High-quality fresh fettuccine is essential for the best texture and flavor. Look for it in the refrigerated section of your grocery store or make it from scratch.)
- 100 g Unsalted butter(Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. Cut into cubes for easier melting.)
- 150 g Parmigiano Reggiano(Finely grated Parmigiano Reggiano is crucial for the sauce's emulsification and flavor. Grate it just before using for optimal freshness.)
- 1 tablespoon Kosher salt(For the pasta water. The water should taste like the sea.)
- 1-2 cups Pasta water(Reserved from cooking the pasta. This starchy water is key to creating a creamy, emulsified sauce without cream.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the kosher salt and stir to dissolve. This will season the pasta from the inside out.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Carefully add the fresh fettuccine to the boiling salted water. Stir gently for the first minute to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions, typically 2-4 minutes for fresh pasta, until al dente (tender but with a slight bite).
⏱️ 3-4 minutes - 3
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large, wide skillet or sauté pan over medium-low heat. Swirl the pan occasionally until the butter is fully melted and begins to foam gently. Do not let it brown.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Just before the pasta is ready, reserve about 2 cups of the starchy pasta water using a heatproof mug or ladle. Then, drain the pasta quickly.
⏱️ 1 minute - 5
Immediately add the drained fettuccine to the skillet with the melted butter. Add the finely grated Parmigiano Reggiano.
⏱️ 1 minute - 6
Begin tossing the pasta vigorously using tongs. Add about 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Continue tossing and stirring constantly. The heat from the pasta and the starchy water will emulsify with the butter and cheese, creating a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the noodles.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 7
Gradually add more pasta water, a tablespoon or two at a time, as needed, continuing to toss, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. It should be glossy and cling to the pasta, not watery or clumpy. This process should take about 3-5 minutes.
⏱️ 3-5 minutes - 8
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, though the cheese and salted pasta water usually provide enough salt. Serve immediately in warm bowls.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use only fresh fettuccine for the most authentic texture and flavor.
- ✓Authentic Alfredo sauce contains no cream; the creaminess comes from the emulsification of butter, cheese, and pasta water.
- ✓Vigorous tossing and the starchy pasta water are the keys to achieving a smooth, emulsified sauce that perfectly coats the fettuccine.
- ✓Grate your Parmigiano Reggiano fresh. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- American-style Alfredo: Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream along with the pasta water in step 6 for a richer, thicker sauce.
- Vegetable Alfredo: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus can be added in step 6 for added flavor and texture.
- Garlic Alfredo: Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the butter in step 3 and sauté for 1 minute before adding the pasta.