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a plate of delicious Pasta Alfredo
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Pasta Alfredo

This Alfredo Pasta recipe proves how little you need to create something extraordinary. You will witness butter, Pecorino Romano, and pasta water transform into a sauce that looks almost impossible for how simple it is. The key to the magic is emulsifying. As you toss the fettuccine, the starch in the pasta water binds with the melted butter and cheese, creating a smooth, glossy coating that clings to every strand of pasta. It’s quick, indulgent, and true to Roman tradition, the original recipe with no heavy cream, no extras. The whole dish comes together in the time it takes to boil your pasta, making it the perfect lazy night dinner when you want something restaurant-worthy, without the effort.
Prep Time 3 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Servings 2

Equipment

  • Large-sized pot
  • Tongs
  • Medium sized bowl
  • Hand whisk
  • Large-sized pan

Ingredients

  • 250 g / 8.8oz fresh egg fettucine
  • 200 g / 7oz Pecorino Romano grated
  • 80 g / 2.8oz butter

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Allow this to dissolve then cook the fettuccine to al dente according to the package instructions (or about 2–3 minutes for fresh pasta). Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick and reserve 1–2 mugs of the starchy pasta water just before you drain the pasta.
  • In a medium bowl, add the Pecorino Romano and a little pasta water. Whisk by hand until it becomes a smooth, runny cream.
  • Place a large pan over low heat and melt the butter. Using tongs, transfer the pasta straight into the pan allowing some of the pasta water to seep in. Toss well so the butter coats the pasta then set the pan over the pot of hot pasta water (to create gentle steam). Pour in the Pecorino cream mixture and gently toss the pasta with tongs.
  • Keep mixing until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta evenly. If the mixture looks too watery, place the pan back on the stove over very low heat and continue tossing until glossy and creamy.

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