Start by melting the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan set over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely, watching closely to avoid browning. This will take just a few moments, and you'll know it's ready when it starts to bubble gently.
Next, add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about one to two minutes, or until it becomes lightly browned and fragrant. Keep an eye on it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and affect the sauce's flavor.
After the garlic is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and allow it to cool for three to five minutes. This short cooling period helps prevent the cream from curdling when added.
Once cooled, pour in the heavy cream into the pan. Use a whisk to blend it into the butter and garlic mixture until fully combined. The cream should incorporate smoothly, creating a luscious base for your sauce.
Return the pan to low heat, ensuring the sauce doesn't boil. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy texture without separating the ingredients. Stir occasionally, allowing the sauce to gently warm through.
Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese while continually whisking. The cheese will melt into the sauce, thickening it and adding a rich flavor. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and integrated.
Now, it's time to season your sauce! Taste it and add Kosher salt and ground black pepper according to your preference. You can also add a bit of minced fresh thyme at this point if you're using it for an additional layer of flavor.
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add one teaspoon of salt to it. This will be used for cooking your pasta. Once boiling, add 16 ounces of fettuccine noodles and cook them to al dente according to package instructions.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water is fantastic for adjusting the sauce consistency if needed.
Finally, mix the pasta with the Homemade Alfredo Sauce, adding reserved cooking water as necessary to achieve your desired texture. Serve immediately for the best flavor and experience.
