Cream Cheese Alfredo Sauce is a rich and creamy sauce that adds a delicious touch to any pasta dish. It is a simple twist on the classic Alfredo sauce, incorporating cream cheese for an extra smooth texture. If you’re looking for an easy way to elevate your weeknight dinner, this sauce is perfect for you!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Cream Cheese Alfredo Sauce at home is not only quick, but it is also a great way to control the ingredients. You can adjust the flavors to your liking and avoid preservatives found in store-bought sauces. Plus, this recipe uses common ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen, making it a convenient option for any meal. The creamy texture and savory flavor make it a family favorite that pairs beautifully with pasta.
How to Make Cream Cheese Alfredo Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese (cut into chunks)
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz wedge parmesan cheese (shredded)
- ½ teaspoon salt (I use kosher salt)
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions:
- Melt the butter in a skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the chunked cream cheese and garlic powder. Whisk together until mostly smooth; this will take a few minutes. It may look a bit curdled at first, but don’t worry—it will smooth out when you add the liquids.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy whipping cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a low boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken further.
- Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta noodles. You can mix the cooked noodles directly into the sauce or serve them separately.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Alfredo Sauce
Cream Cheese Alfredo Sauce is versatile and pairs well with various dishes. Serve it over your choice of pasta—such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti. You can also use it in casseroles, as a base for chicken Alfredo, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. Get creative!
How to Store Cream Cheese Alfredo Sauce
If you have leftovers, store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore its creamy texture.
Tips to Make Cream Cheese Alfredo Sauce
- Make sure to whip the cream cheese well to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- For extra flavor, consider adding cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer to reduce it further.
Variation
You can customize this sauce by adding different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a unique twist on the flavor. For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
FAQs
1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that the texture and richness may be slightly different than using regular cream cheese.
2. Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients in this sauce are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your pasta is also gluten-free if needed.
3. Can I freeze Cream Cheese Alfredo Sauce?
Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate once thawed. However, you can store it in the refrigerator for a few days and reheat it.
With its creamy and delicious taste, Cream Cheese Alfredo Sauce is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy making it and serving it up deliciously!
Cream Cheese Alfredo Sauce
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- ½ cup butter (1 stick)
- 8 oz cream cheese (cut into chunks)
- 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz parmesan cheese (shredded)
- ½ teaspoon salt (kosher salt recommended)
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Melt the butter in a skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the chunked cream cheese and garlic powder. Whisk together until mostly smooth; this will take a few minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy whipping cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a low boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken further.
- Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta noodles.
