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Easy Skinny Fettuccini Garlic Alfredo photo

Skinny Fettuccini Garlic Alfredo

This Skinny Fettuccini Garlic Alfredo is a creamy, guilt-free pasta dish that's deliciously satisfying!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:
  • 12 ounces whole wheat fettuccini pasta
For the Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups 1% milk
  • 2 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

Cooking Instructions:
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add 12 ounces of whole wheat fettuccini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
  3. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the garlic and butter mixture. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes to cook the flour, creating a roux that will thicken your sauce.
  4. Slowly whisk in 2 cups of 1% milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Add 2 ounces of reduced-fat cream cheese and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  5. Stir in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  6. Add the cooked fettuccini to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and combined. Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute to allow the cheese to fully integrate into the sauce.
  8. Plate the Skinny Fettuccini Garlic Alfredo and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome!

Notes

  • This recipe is versatile; feel free to add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
  • For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
  • Make sure to whisk continuously when adding the milk to prevent lumps.
  • This dish is best served fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for leftovers.