Save to Pinterest A lighter take on classic Alfredo, this creamy pasta features a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce made with reduced-fat ingredients for a satisfying, guilt-free meal.
I first made this recipe when I wanted all the flavor of Alfredo without the heaviness, and it quickly became a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) whole wheat fettuccine or spaghetti
- Sauce: 2 teaspoons olive oil
- Sauce: 4 large garlic cloves, minced
- Sauce: 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Sauce: 480 ml (2 cups) skim milk, warmed
- Sauce: 60 g (1/4 cup) reduced-fat cream cheese, cubed
- Sauce: 60 g (1/2 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Sauce: 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Sauce: 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Sauce: Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Garnish: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Garnish: Extra freshly grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dentel Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Step 2:
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Step 3:
- Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Step 4:
- Gradually whisk in the warmed skim milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3&4 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Reduce heat to low. Add the cream cheese cubes and stir until fully melted and incorporated.
- Step 6:
- Stir in grated Parmesan, black pepper, salt, and nutmeg (if using). Simmer gently until smooth and creamy.
- Step 7:
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Save to Pinterest My family gathers around this dish on busy weeknights, enjoying both the taste and the lighter feel it offers.
Notes
For extra vegetables, add steamed broccoli or baby spinach in step 7. Pair with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a sparkling water with lemon.
Required Tools
Large pot, Nonstick skillet, Whisk, Colander, Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains Milk, Wheat (gluten), Milk-based cheese. Check all ingredient labels for allergens if using packaged products.
Save to Pinterest This Skinny Alfredo is the perfect balance of creamy and light, a delicious way to enjoy pasta any day.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta in this dish?
Yes, substituting gluten-free pasta and flour works well to accommodate dietary preferences without compromising the sauce's creaminess.
- → How can I make the sauce thicker if it's too runny?
Add a bit more flour while creating the roux or let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens to your preferred consistency.
- → What can I add for extra protein?
Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp make excellent protein additions, balancing the creamy pasta dish.
- → Is fresh garlic necessary for this sauce?
Fresh garlic provides a vibrant flavor that's key to the sauce's profile, but garlic powder can be a substitute in a pinch.
- → Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated; just whisk in a little pasta water or milk to restore its creamy texture before serving.