Alfredo for a Crowd

Feeding a Crowd: Creamy Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Are you planning a large gathering or hosting a dinner party and need a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both delicious and easy to prepare? Look no further than our Alfredo for a Crowd recipe! With its rich and creamy texture and savory Parmesan flavor, this Alfredo sauce is sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, chicken, or vegetables, this versatile sauce is the perfect addition to any meal. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up a batch of Alfredo sauce that will have your guests coming back for seconds!

Ingredients:

Produce:

  • 3 tsp Garlic
  • 1 tbsp Penzeys lemon peel, powdered

Baking & Spices:

  • 3 tsp Ground white pepper

Dairy:

  • 1 lb Butter
  • 3 lbs Cream cheese
  • 3 qt Half-and-half
  • 6 1/2 lbs Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

  • Mince the garlic cloves and set aside. Grate the Parmesan cheese and set it aside as well.

2. Melt the Butter:

  • In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.

3. Add the Garlic:

  • Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the saucepan. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

4. Incorporate Cream Cheese:

  • Add the cream cheese to the saucepan, stirring continuously until it is fully melted and combined with the butter and garlic.

5. Pour in Half-and-Half:

  • Gradually pour in the half-and-half, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

6. Season the Sauce:

  • Stir in the ground white pepper and powdered lemon peel, ensuring that they are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.

7. Add Parmesan Cheese:

  • Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

8. Simmer and Serve:

  • Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. Once heated through, serve the Alfredo sauce over your favorite pasta, chicken, or vegetables.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Consistency Adjustment: If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding more half-and-half until you reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, if the sauce is too thin, you can let it simmer for a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
  • Garlic Infusion: For a more pronounced garlic flavor, you can infuse the butter with garlic by cooking the minced garlic in the butter over low heat for 5-7 minutes before adding the remaining ingredients.
  • Herbaceous Twist: Add a pop of freshness to the sauce by stirring in some chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or thyme just before serving.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how to make a keto-friendly version of Alfredo for a Crowd:

  • Dairy Swap: Use full-fat dairy products such as heavy cream and cream cheese to keep the sauce keto-friendly while still maintaining its creamy texture.
  • Flour Substitute: Omit the flour or cornstarch typically used as a thickening agent in traditional Alfredo sauce recipes. The cream cheese and Parmesan cheese will naturally thicken the sauce as it cooks.
  • Low-Carb Serving Options: Serve the Alfredo sauce over low-carb alternatives such as zucchini noodles (zoodles), spaghetti squash, or cauliflower rice for a satisfying and keto-friendly meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I freeze leftover Alfredo sauce? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Alfredo sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to the Alfredo sauce? A: Absolutely! Alfredo sauce is incredibly versatile, and you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture.

Q: Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Q: Is Alfredo sauce gluten-free? A: Traditional Alfredo sauce made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese is naturally gluten-free. However, be sure to check the labels of any pre-packaged ingredients such as grated cheese or seasoning blends to ensure they are gluten-free.

In conclusion, our Alfredo for a Crowd recipe is a creamy and indulgent sauce that’s perfect for feeding a large gathering or adding a touch of elegance to any meal. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this Alfredo sauce is a must-have in any home cook’s repertoire. Plus, with our keto and low-carb variations, everyone can enjoy the rich and savory flavors of Alfredo sauce while staying true to their dietary goals. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your guests with this delectable sauce that’s sure to become a new family favorite!