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 enjoy making this pasta when I want a comforting dish that’s both creamy and lighter than traditional Alfredo sauces.
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 dente. 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 saute 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 Family especially loves this pasta when we add steamed broccoli or baby spinach making it a wholesome meal.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 340, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 52 g, Protein: 16 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This Skinny Alfredo Garlic Parmesan Snowy Pasta makes for a quick, creamy, and lighter meal that is perfect any night of the week.
Ask About This Recipe
- → How can I make the sauce thicker?
Gradually whisk the sauce over low heat until it thickens. Adding reserved pasta water can adjust consistency if needed.
- → What type of pasta works best?
Whole wheat fettuccine or spaghetti is ideal for absorbing the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce evenly.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, steamed broccoli or baby spinach can be added when tossing the pasta with the sauce for extra nutrition.
- → How do I prevent lumps in the sauce?
Whisk the flour with garlic in olive oil before gradually adding warm skim milk, stirring continuously for a smooth sauce.
- → What garnishes enhance the flavor?
Fresh parsley and freshly grated Parmesan add freshness and depth to the creamy sauce.