Basic Italian White Cream Sauce Like An Alfredo Or Bechamel Recipe

Master the art of creamy Italian white sauce with this easy recipe! Perfect as a base for pasta dishes like fettuccine alfredo or creamy tortellini, this versatile sauce also elevates chicken, shrimp, and more. Learn to make a classic béchamel-style sauce, then customize it with bacon, caramelized onions, peas, herbs – the possibilities are endless! This recipe is quick, delicious, and perfect for weeknight dinners. #ItalianSauce #WhiteSauce #Alfredo #Bechamel #PastaSauce #EasyRecipe #WeeknightDinner

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Calories 215.3 kcal
Protein 2g
Rating 4.1 (16 Reviews)
Basic Italian White Cream Sauce Like An Alfredo Or Bechamel 100

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Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Basic Italian White Cream Sauce Like An Alfredo Or Bechamel

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How to Make Basic Italian White Cream Sauce Like An Alfredo Or Bechamel

  1. Melt 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) of butter in a small saucepan over low-medium heat. Stir frequently for 5 minutes until melted and fragrant.
  2. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste (roux) forms.
  3. Gradually whisk in 2 cups heavy cream. Continue whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or parsley.
  5. Optional: Stir in cooked bacon, caramelized onions, and/or frozen peas for a richer flavor profile. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta, chicken, or shrimp.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

5 g

Sugar

0g

Fat

70g

Carbs

1g