Broccoli & Mushroom Alfredo from Old Spaghetti Factory features tender broccoli florets and sauteed mushrooms blended in a creamy Alfredo sauce, served over perfectly cooked pasta for a rich, velvety, and comforting Italian classic.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle or serving spoon
- Pasta serving tongs or fork
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or other pasta
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 8 oz (225g) cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Fresh broccoli florets should be tender yet firm, so blanching them briefly before sauteing preserves their vibrant color and texture. Cremini mushrooms provide a deeper, earthier flavor compared to white mushrooms, enhancing the Alfredo sauce's richness. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for optimal creaminess and a distinct, sharp taste that pre-grated cheese can't match. Heavy cream is crucial for achieving the velvety sauce consistency that defines an authentic Alfredo. Your copy of Broccoli & Mushroom Alfredo from Old Spaghetti Factory can be recreated with these key ingredient choices to capture the same comforting and indulgent Italian classic flavors.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add fettuccine and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- In the last 2–3 minutes of pasta cooking, add broccoli florets to the boiling water with the pasta.
- Drain pasta and broccoli together using a colander; set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil.
- Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until softened and lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir, bringing to a gentle simmer.
- Lower heat and add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet.
- Toss until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with Alfredo sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Substitution
Broccoli & Mushroom Alfredo from Old Spaghetti Factory copycat menu combines fresh broccoli florets and sauteed mushrooms with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a luxurious pasta dish. If fresh broccoli is unavailable, frozen florets can be substituted, but make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture. You can also use different pasta shapes like linguine or penne, depending on your preference or pantry stock. For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk or use a lower-fat cheese alternative. To enhance the flavor, adding a splash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes during sauteing can give your Alfredo a subtle depth.
Tips
Be sure to salt your pasta water generously to enhance the flavor of the fettuccine and broccoli as they cook together for a perfect al dente texture. When sauteing mushrooms, avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure they brown evenly instead of steaming. Stir the Alfredo sauce gently and keep the heat low to prevent the cream from curdling and to allow the Parmesan to melt smoothly. Your final toss should coat the pasta evenly with sauce, so use pasta tongs or a fork for thorough mixing before serving.
Nutritions
Broccoli & Mushroom Alfredo is a nutrient-dense dish that provides a good balance of macronutrients and vitamins. The broccoli contributes fiber, vitamin C, and folate, boosting your immune system and supporting healthy digestion. Mushrooms add B vitamins and antioxidants while the Alfredo sauce, made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, offers calcium and protein, though it is higher in fat and calories. This meal can be a satisfying and nourishing option when enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Storage
Store your Broccoli & Mushroom Alfredo in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Consume the leftovers within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste and safety. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in a microwave-safe dish to keep the sauce creamy and avoid overcooking the pasta.
Variation or Alternatives
For a lighter version of Broccoli & Mushroom Alfredo, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk or use a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk to maintain creaminess while reducing fat content. If you prefer a vegan alternative, replace butter with olive oil, use plant-based cream substitutes, and swap Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast or a vegan parmesan. To enhance flavor complexity, try adding sauteed shallots or a splash of white wine to the mushroom mixture before simmering the Alfredo sauce. You might also experiment with different pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni to hold more sauce, enhancing each bite.
Allergies
Broccoli & Mushroom Alfredo contains dairy ingredients such as heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance. Mushrooms and broccoli, while less common allergens, could cause sensitivities in some people. Your awareness of these ingredients is essential to avoid potential allergic responses when enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
Broccoli & Mushroom Alfredo from Old Spaghetti Factory offers a rich, creamy sauce perfectly balanced with tender mushrooms and fresh broccoli, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. The authentic blend of Parmesan cheese and garlic in the Alfredo sauce enhances its savory profile, appealing to fans of hearty Italian cuisine. You can replicate this restaurant favorite at home to enjoy a gourmet experience with fresh ingredients and customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Making the copycat version is worth it for its delicious, comforting flavors and the joy of preparing a classic dish in your own kitchen.