Homemade Canned Alfredo Sauce: Creamy Convenience in a Jar:
Introduction:
Canning your own Alfredo sauce is a great way to enjoy its creamy, rich flavor whenever you need it. Perfect for pasta, casseroles, or as a pizza sauce base, this Canned Alfredo Sauce recipe is shelf-stable and ready to elevate your meals with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment:
- Canning jars with lids and rings
- Large pot for sauce preparation
- Water bath canner or pressure canner
- Jar lifter
- Ladle and funnel
Important Note:
Due to its high dairy content, Alfredo sauce requires pressure canning for safe storage. Do not attempt to preserve this sauce using a water bath canner. Always follow safe canning practices and check local guidelines for processing times.
Preparation Tips:
- Sterilize Jars: Wash jars in hot, soapy water, then sterilize by boiling for 10 minutes. Keep them warm until ready to use.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cream and cheese will yield the best results for flavor and texture.
- Blend for Smoothness: Whisk thoroughly to ensure no lumps remain in the sauce.
- Do Not Overheat: Avoid boiling the sauce, as it may cause separation.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cream and softened cream cheese, whisking until smooth.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Avoid boiling.
Step 2: Fill the Jars
- Using a ladle and funnel, pour the hot Alfredo sauce into sterilized jars, leaving 1-inch headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to ensure a proper seal.
Step 3: Seal the Jars
- Place the lids on the jars and secure them with the rings, tightening just until finger-tight.
Step 4: Pressure Can the Sauce
- Place the jars in a pressure canner, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Process at 10 pounds of pressure for 60 minutes (adjust for altitude if necessary).
Step 5: Cool and Store
- Carefully remove the jars using a jar lifter and place them on a clean towel. Allow them to cool for 12-24 hours.
- Check the seals by pressing the center of each lid. If it doesn’t pop back, the jar is sealed. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
Description:
This Canned Alfredo Sauce is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. Its shelf-stable convenience makes it a perfect addition to your pantry, ready to use whenever you need a comforting and delicious meal.
Nutritional Information (Per 1/4 Cup):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
Recommendations:
- Pairing Ideas: Use with fettuccine, drizzle over roasted vegetables, or as a white pizza base.
- Storage Note: Refrigerate any unsealed jars and consume within a week.
- Customization: Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil after reheating for added freshness.
- Thickening: If the sauce seems thinner after reheating, stir in a cornstarch slurry.
- Use a Water Bath for Fresh Use: If not pressure canning, store the sauce in the refrigerator and use within 5 days.
Conclusion:
Canned Alfredo Sauce brings the luxurious flavors of homemade Alfredo to your pantry. By pressure canning it, you ensure safe, long-term storage without sacrificing flavor or texture. Try this recipe and enjoy the creamy goodness whenever you want with just a twist of a lid!