Alfredo Sauce with Cream Cheese Pasta

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Rich, creamy, and irresistibly comforting, this Alfredo Sauce with Cream Cheese Pasta is what weeknight dinner dreams are made of. It’s a silky, luscious twist on classic Alfredo, made even more decadent with a generous helping of cream cheese that melts into the sauce and clings to every strand of pasta.

This version brings the familiar warmth of traditional Alfredo but offers an extra layer of richness and a velvety texture that can only come from cream cheese. Whether you’re serving it up with fettuccine or using it as a creamy base for a loaded pasta bake, this sauce makes everything feel like a cozy hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Alfredo Sauce with Cream Cheese Pasta

You’ll love how incredibly easy and quick it is to pull together. In just about 20 minutes, you can go from craving to comfort. Cream cheese adds a subtle tang and body to the sauce, making it richer than your average Alfredo without requiring a long list of ingredients. It’s a perfect base for add-ins like grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or even crispy bacon.

Plus, it reheats well—just splash a bit of milk or cream in when warming it up and it returns to its original creamy glory.

Can I Use Any Kind of Cream Cheese for Alfredo Sauce?

You can use full-fat, reduced-fat, or even whipped cream cheese. However, full-fat cream cheese will give you the creamiest, smoothest result. For the best melt-in-your-mouth texture, let it soften a bit at room temperature before adding it to the pan. If you prefer a more tangy sauce, try adding a spoonful of garlic herb cream cheese for a flavorful twist.

Ingredients for the Alfredo Sauce with Cream Cheese Pasta

To make this ultra-creamy Alfredo pasta, you’ll need just a few essentials that you likely already have on hand. Each one plays a role in building a sauce that’s rich and satisfying.

Butter gives the sauce a luscious, velvety base and deep flavor.

Cream Cheese is the star ingredient here. It makes the sauce thick, rich, and incredibly smooth.

Garlic adds that classic savory aroma that balances out the richness of the cream and cheese.

Heavy Cream adds extra richness and helps the sauce coat the pasta beautifully.

Parmesan Cheese brings sharp, salty depth and that signature Alfredo taste.

Salt and Pepper let you fine-tune the seasoning so the creamy elements don’t overpower everything.

Pasta of Choice like fettuccine, linguine, or penne all work well with this thick, clingy sauce.

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How To Make the Alfredo Sauce with Cream Cheese Pasta

Step 1: Melt and Sizzle

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in the minced garlic and stir for about a minute until it’s fragrant but not browned.

Step 2: Cream Cheese Magic

Add the cream cheese in chunks and stir constantly as it melts. It might look lumpy at first, but keep stirring until it smooths out into a thick, creamy base.

Step 3: Pour in the Cream

Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes. This helps it thicken into that dreamy Alfredo consistency.

Step 4: Add Parmesan Perfection

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet and toss to coat every bite with sauce. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

How to Serve and Store Alfredo Sauce with Cream Cheese Pasta

This dish is indulgent and satisfying on its own, but it also works great as part of a larger meal. Serve it straight from the skillet, topped with freshly cracked black pepper or chopped parsley for a little brightness. It feeds 4 generously.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream and warm it slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave to restore that creamy texture.

What to Serve With Alfredo Sauce with Cream Cheese Pasta?

Garlic Bread

A crusty slice of buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing that’s hard to beat.

Grilled Chicken

Adds protein and a bit of smokiness that balances the creamy pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

The slight char and earthy flavor of broccoli cut through the richness perfectly.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine with tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast.

Crispy Bacon Bits

Sprinkle on top for a salty crunch and a layer of decadence.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Their umami richness blends seamlessly with the Alfredo.

Lemon-Herb Shrimp

Bright, zesty shrimp bring a light seafood twist to the meal.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Creamy Twist?

If you loved this Alfredo Sauce with Cream Cheese Pasta, check out more comfort-filled pasta favorites:

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a veggie-packed creamy bowl.
Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese for a cheesy family classic.
One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni to save time and dishes.
Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce with a high-protein punch.
Tuscan Chicken Pasta if you’re craving savory, sun-dried tomato goodness.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest pasta board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toss in spinach or spice it up with red pepper flakes? Did you go with penne or keep it classic with fettuccine?

I love seeing your delicious takes on these recipes. Feel free to ask questions too—we’re all here to cook and learn together.

Explore beautifully curated pasta dinners and creamy sauces on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover even more comforting creations to love.

Conclusion

Alfredo Sauce with Cream Cheese Pasta takes a beloved classic and makes it even better with just one creamy addition. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table and keeps them coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for guests or making a solo comfort meal, this is the recipe you’ll turn to when nothing but rich, creamy pasta will do.

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Alfredo Sauce with Cream Cheese Pasta


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  • Author: Janet Reynolds
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Alfredo Sauce with Cream Cheese Pasta is ultra-creamy, rich, and perfect for weeknight dinners. Made with butter, cream cheese, and parmesan, it’s a quick comfort food favorite the whole family will love. Great with fettuccine, penne, or linguine and ready in under 30 minutes.


Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter

4 ounces cream cheese (softened)

2 cloves garlic (minced)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated parmesan cheese

1⁄2 teaspoon salt

1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper

8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine)


Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

2. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add the cream cheese in chunks and stir until fully melted and smooth.

4. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer for 3 to 5 minutes.

5. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.

8. Serve hot, optionally topped with parsley or more black pepper.

Notes

This sauce thickens as it cools, so serve immediately for the best texture.

Reheat with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creaminess.

You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 490mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 23g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

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