Skinny Alfredo Garlic Parmesan

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.

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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

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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.