Angel Hair Pasta With Alfredo Sauce

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Alfredo Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comforts

I absolutely love whipping up a quick and creamy dish of Angel Hair Pasta with Alfredo Sauce. The smoothness of the sauce envelops each delicate strand of pasta, creating a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner party. I find that the blend of butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese creates the most indulgent flavor that pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or grilled chicken. This is one of those recipes that gets rave reviews every time I make it, and it only takes about 20 minutes to prepare!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-27T17:29:34.929Z

When I first tried making Alfredo sauce from scratch, I was amazed at how simple it was! I remember thinking that a dish this rich couldn't be so quick to prepare. But with just a few key ingredients—heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan—I was able to create something that surpassed any jarred sauce. Each bite is creamy and fulfilling, and I enjoy serving it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

One little tip I've discovered is to reserve a bit of the pasta water before draining. Adding a splash of this starchy water to the sauce helps it adhere better to the pasta, creating that perfect, velvety coating. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, and I'm excited to share it with you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of angel hair.
Quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Rich flavors that will delight your taste buds and satisfy your cravings.

Mastering the Art of the Alfredo Sauce

The secret to a fantastic Alfredo sauce lies in balancing the ingredients. Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for a deeper flavor; freshly grated will melt more easily and provide an authentic taste. When adding cheese to the sauce, ensure the heat is on low to prevent it from clumping and becoming grainy. Continuous stirring will help achieve that velvety smooth consistency that is the hallmark of a great Alfredo sauce.

If you're looking to elevate the flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce. Both enhancements can bring a wonderful depth without overwhelming the main ingredients. Nutmeg should be used sparingly, as it can become overpowering quickly, while lemon juice adds a brightness that balances the richness of the cream and cheese.

Perfecting Your Pasta

Cooking angel hair pasta requires attention, as it cooks faster than other types of pasta. Keep a close eye on the timing, as it usually takes just 3 minutes to become al dente. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, which won't hold up well against the sauce. When draining, be sure to reserve that precious pasta water; it can be a game-changer in adjusting the sauce's consistency.

To prevent the cooked pasta from sticking together before you add the sauce, a quick toss with a bit of olive oil can help. This simple step is particularly useful if you’re prepping ingredients ahead of time or if there's a slight delay in finishing the sauce. Additionally, if you're scaling the recipe, maintaining the same cook time and water ratio is essential for achieving the desired texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious dish:

Ingredients

8 oz angel hair pasta
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Angel Hair Pasta with Alfredo Sauce:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the angel hair pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 3 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. When the butter is fully melted, add the heavy cream and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens slightly.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Lower the heat and slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce is creamy. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing until the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve

Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Angel Hair Pasta with Alfredo Sauce!

Dig in and savor every creamy bite!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Angel Hair Pasta with Alfredo Sauce can stand alone as a delicious entrée, but pairing it with grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can transform it into a heartier meal. The protein adds a complementary texture and flavor, making it more satisfying. A light side salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta and cleanses the palate beautifully.

For a festive touch, consider garnishing with additional ingredients such as crispy bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed asparagus. These add not only color but also additional layers of flavor and texture that enhance the overall dish, making it visually appealing and elevating the dining experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you plan to prepare this dish ahead of time, consider cooking the pasta and making the sauce separately. Store the pasta in an airtight container with a little olive oil to keep it from sticking. The sauce can also be made in advance; just be sure to reheat it slowly over low heat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to bring it back to the desired creamy consistency.

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container. When reheating, using a stovetop is preferred to maintain texture, and once again, reserve pasta water can help rehydrate the sauce effectively. Do note, however, that freezing may alter the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce, so consuming it fresh is ideal for the best flavor experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While angel hair works beautifully, you can substitute with any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or spaghetti.

→ Is there a way to lighten this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter for a lighter sauce.

→ Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it on low heat before combining with the pasta.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta pairs well with a light salad, garlic bread, or grilled chicken for a complete meal.