Angel Hair Pasta With Alfredo Sauce

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Alfredo Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Everyday Cooking

I absolutely love making Angel Hair Pasta with Alfredo Sauce for a quick dinner that feels indulgent and comforting. The silky sauce envelops the delicate strands of pasta perfectly, creating a deliciously rich experience that impresses every time. With just a few ingredients, I can whip this dish up in under 30 minutes. It’s a go-to meal for busy weeknights or when I crave a little bit of luxury without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:17:35.444Z

When I first tried making Alfredo sauce from scratch, I was amazed at how simple it was! Just butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese transform into a restaurant-quality sauce that clings beautifully to the angel hair pasta. I remember the first time I served this dish to friends; their eyes lit up when they tasted the creamy, dreamy flavors.

My secret when preparing this dish is to cook the pasta just until al dente, ensuring it retains its structure and complements the rich sauce. Timing is everything, and with a quick sauté of garlic to infuse flavor, I create a meal that feels special yet comes together in no time!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce that's effortlessly easy to make
Delicate angel hair pasta that cooks in minutes
A comforting meal perfect for any night of the week

Perfecting the Alfredo Sauce

The key to a great Alfredo sauce is the balance between creaminess and flavor. By starting with unsalted butter, you can better control the saltiness of your dish as you add seasoning later. When melting the butter, keep the heat at medium to avoid browning, which can impart unwanted flavors. You’ll know it’s time to add the garlic when it becomes aromatic, usually within 30 seconds to a minute. This step is crucial for infusing the butter with a robust garlic flavor without burning it.

Once the cream is incorporated, stirring continuously will help achieve a silky texture. If the sauce appears grainy or overly thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water can help smooth it out. Aim for a glossy finish that clings gently to the back of a spoon, which indicates it’s ready to be tossed with your pasta. This rich sauce serves as the heart of the dish, providing a luscious coating that brings each bite to life.

Choosing the Right Pasta

Angel hair pasta is a fantastic choice for Alfredo sauce due to its fine texture, which allows it to soak up the creamy sauce quickly. Keep an eye on the cooking time since angel hair cooks faster than other pasta varieties, typically around 2-4 minutes. Overcooking can lead to mushiness, so taste it a minute or so before the package instructions indicate; it should be firm yet tender.

If you're looking to make this dish gluten-free, you can substitute angel hair pasta with a gluten-free variety made from rice or quinoa. Just ensure you follow the cooking instructions on the package closely, as different gluten-free pastas may vary in texture and cooking time. The goal is to maintain that delightful lightness and not compromise the dish's overall flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients for Angel Hair Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

8 oz angel hair pasta
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure you have everything prepped for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Then stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Combine and Serve

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese slowly, allowing it to melt and incorporate into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Garnish and Enjoy

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Angel Hair Pasta with Alfredo Sauce!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, consider adding cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms to the pasta. This dish also pairs well with a side salad for a fresh balance.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While the best experience of Angel Hair Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is when served fresh, you can prepare elements ahead of time. The Alfredo sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to regain its creamy texture.

If you intend to freeze the sauce, remember that cream sauces can separate upon thawing. For best results, freeze the sauce without any cheese, then stir in freshly grated Parmesan after reheating. This way, you’ll ensure the sauce maintains a smooth consistency and rich flavor upon serving.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your meal, consider serving Angel Hair Pasta with Alfredo Sauce alongside a light salad topped with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing complements the richness of the sauce beautifully. You may also enjoy it with garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a heartier spread that balances the dish’s creaminess.

For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp on top. Simply season the protein lightly to let the Alfredo sauce remain the star of your dish. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a lovely hint of spice, giving your dish a fun twist that pleasantly contrasts the richness of the Alfredo.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While angel hair is fantastic, you can substitute with fettuccine, linguine, or even penne.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or water.

→ Can I make this sauce in advance?

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time, but for best results, combine it with the pasta just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Feel free to add cooked bacon, a dash of nutmeg, or even some spinach for added flavor and nutrition.