Name: Fettuccine Alfredo with Fresh Pasta
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon butter; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Freshly ground black pepper (to taste); Salt (to taste)

Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic Italian dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. The creamy, rich sauce envelops fresh pasta, creating a delightful experience that transports you straight to an Italian trattoria. Making Fettuccine Alfredo with Fresh Pasta is not only rewarding but also a culinary adventure that brings out the chef in everyone. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the quality of ingredients used. Let’s dive in and discover how to create this delectable dish from scratch!

Why Cooks Rave About It

One of the reasons cooks rave about Fettuccine Alfredo with Fresh Pasta is its incredible flavor profile. The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and freshly made pasta results in a dish that is both indulgent and satisfying. Moreover, making fresh pasta at home allows for a level of customization and freshness that dried pasta simply cannot match. It’s a dish that feels special enough for a celebration but is easy enough to whip up for a weeknight dinner. The joy of twirling freshly made fettuccine around your fork, coated in a creamy sauce, is an experience every pasta lover should enjoy.

Ingredients at a Glance

To create the perfect Fettuccine Alfredo with Fresh Pasta, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour – This will be the base for your fresh pasta.
2 large eggs – These will give richness and structure to your pasta.
1 cup (119ml) heavy cream – The star ingredient for that luscious Alfredo sauce.
1 tablespoon butter – Adds a touch of richness and depth to the sauce.
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese – The key to a flavorful Alfredo sauce.
Freshly ground black pepper and salt – To taste, enhancing all the flavors.

Gear Checklist

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools handy:

Pasta machine – For rolling out your fresh pasta to the perfect thickness.
Mixing bowl – To combine the flour and eggs when making the pasta dough.
Rolling pin – If you don’t have a pasta machine, this will help you roll out the dough.
Large pot – For boiling the pasta until al dente.
Skillet – To prepare the Alfredo sauce and combine it with the pasta.
Grater – For grating fresh Parmesan cheese to ensure the best flavor.

Stepwise Method: Fettuccine Alfredo with Fresh Pasta

Step 1: Make the Fresh Pasta Dough

Start by creating a mound with the flour on a clean surface. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into this well. Using a fork, beat the eggs gently, gradually incorporating the flour from the edges of the well until a dough begins to form. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has rested, divide it into four pieces. Keep the pieces you are not using covered to prevent them from drying out. Using a pasta machine or a rolling pin, roll each piece of dough to your desired thickness. Aim for a thickness of about 1/16 inch for perfect fettuccine.

Step 3: Cut the Fettuccine

Once rolled out, dust the sheets of pasta with a little flour to prevent sticking. Fold the sheets loosely and slice them into strips about ½ inch wide to form fettuccine. Unravel the strips and dust them with flour again, ensuring they don’t stick together.

Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and allow it to reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes. Lower the heat and whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh fettuccine and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until it floats to the surface and is tender. Fresh pasta cooks much quicker than dried pasta, so keep an eye on it!

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Using tongs, transfer the cooked fettuccine directly from the pot to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring it is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Fettuccine Alfredo immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. Enjoy the creamy goodness!

Holiday-Friendly Variations

Fettuccine Alfredo with Fresh Pasta is versatile, and you can easily adapt it for special occasions. Here are some festive ideas:

Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Incorporate cooked shrimp or chicken for added protein.
Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.
Serve with a side of garlic bread and a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Chef’s Notes

Fresh pasta can be made a day in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano, for a different flavor.
For a lighter version, you can substitute part of the heavy cream with milk.
Always taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning before serving!

How to Store & Reheat

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creaminess. Stir gently until warmed through.

Quick Questions

Can I make the pasta dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pasta dough a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you are ready to use it.

How do I know when fresh pasta is cooked?

Fresh pasta cooks quickly, usually within 2-3 minutes. It is done when it floats to the surface and feels tender yet firm to the bite (al dente).

Can I freeze the fresh pasta?

Absolutely! You can freeze fresh pasta by placing it in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be cooked directly from the freezer without thawing.

What can I serve with Fettuccine Alfredo?

Fettuccine Alfredo pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this recipe for Fettuccine Alfredo with Fresh Pasta, be sure to save it and share it with friends and family. There’s nothing quite like gathering around a table to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal together. Happy cooking!

Creating Fettuccine Alfredo with Fresh Pasta at home is an experience filled with joy and satisfaction. The combination of fresh ingredients and a little bit of effort results in a dish that is truly unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a delightful dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and let the cooking adventure begin!