Step 1

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan set over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the garlic and cook until lightly browned and fragrant.

Step 3

Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool for 3-5 minutes.

Step 4

Pour in the room temperature heavy cream. Whisk until combined.

Step 5

Once the cream is fully combined, place the pan back on the stove over low heat. Do not let the sauce come to a boil - keep it over low heat.

Step 6

Add the grated cheese and continually whisk the sauce together until the cheese is completely melted and evenly combined.

Step 7

Taste and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.

Step 8

Bring water in a large pot to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt.

Step 9

Once the water is boiling, cook 16 ounces of fettuccine noodles to al dente according to package instructions.

Step 10

Drain, reserving ½ cup of the pasta cooking water.

Step 11

Mix the pasta with the sauce, adding cooking water as needed to reach the desired consistency. Serve immediately.