Lighthearted Fettuccine Alfredo
Indulge in the creamy comfort of classic Italian cuisine with a guilt-free twist in this Lighthearted Fettuccine Alfredo. Perfectly al dente fettuccine is drenched in a velvety sauce that's rich in flavor but lighter on calories, thanks to a clever combination of low-sodium chicken broth, 2% or skim milk, and just the right amount of Parmesan cheese. This streamlined recipe skips the heavy cream and delivers a luxurious, garlic-infused dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing indulgence. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal that’s both wholesome and satisfying. Perfect for fans of pasta and lightened-up comfort foods!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fettuccine
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (2% or skim)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, drain the rest, and set the pasta aside.
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic, whisking constantly to form a smooth roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Follow with the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Add the salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.
Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Lighthearted Fettuccine Alfredo!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1248 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 56.0 g | 72% | |
| Saturated Fat | 33.4 g | 167% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 162 mg | 54% | |
| Sodium | 2767 mg | 120% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 130.9 g | 48% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.2 g | 19% | |
| Total Sugars | 17.3 g | ||
| Protein | 63.4 g | 127% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.0 mcg | 15% | |
| Calcium | 1246 mg | 96% | |
| Iron | 5.8 mg | 32% | |
| Potassium | 753 mg | 16% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
