Holiday Hug in a Bowl—Slow Cooker Creamy Alfredo Pasta
Indulging in a plate of Slow Cooker Creamy Alfredo Pasta is one of life’s simplest yet most satisfying pleasures. This dish combines the velvety richness of Alfredo sauce with the ease and convenience of slow cooking, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners. Below, we provide a comprehensive guide to preparing this creamy, comforting dish, ensuring it becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire.
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Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in crafting the creamy, flavorful Alfredo sauce and tender pasta.
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| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fettuccine | 1 lb |
| Heavy Cream | 2 cups |
| Chicken Broth | 1 cup |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Nutmeg | 1/4 tsp |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Cooked Chicken (optional) | 1 cup |
| Fresh Parsley (garnish) | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to achieve a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
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1. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce Base
In the slow cooker, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Whisk these ingredients together until they are thoroughly mixed. This blend forms the base of your Alfredo sauce, with the Parmesan providing a rich, cheesy flavor and the nutmeg adding a subtle, aromatic warmth.
2. Add Butter and Optional Chicken
Add butter to the sauce mixture, allowing it to melt slowly as the dish cooks. For a heartier meal, stir in cooked chicken at this stage. The chicken absorbs the sauce’s flavors, enhancing the overall dish.
3. Incorporate the Pasta
Break the fettuccine in half to fit it easily into the slow cooker. Submerge the pasta in the liquid, ensuring it is fully coated. This step is crucial for the pasta to cook evenly and absorb the creamy sauce.
4. Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from clumping together. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a rich, cohesive dish.
5. Finish and Garnish
Before serving, give the pasta a final stir to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and an added layer of freshness.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Plate your creamy Alfredo pasta and serve immediately. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
