Skinny Alfredo Garlic Parmesan (Printable Version)

A lighter creamy garlic Parmesan pasta featuring whole wheat noodles and a smooth, velvety sauce.

# Ingredient List:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 ounces whole wheat fettuccine or spaghetti

→ Sauce

02 - 2 teaspoons olive oil
03 - 4 large garlic cloves, minced
04 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
05 - 2 cups skim milk, warmed
06 - 1/4 cup reduced-fat cream cheese, cubed
07 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

→ Garnish

11 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
12 - Extra freshly grated Parmesan, for serving

# Directions:

01 - 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.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
03 - Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to form a roux.
04 - Gradually whisk in warmed skim milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
05 - Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese cubes and stir until fully melted and incorporated.
06 - Stir in grated Parmesan, black pepper, salt, and nutmeg if using. Simmer gently until smooth and creamy.
07 - Add drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
08 - Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Lighter take on classic Alfredo
  • Uses reduced-fat ingredients for a guilt-free meal
02 -
  • Contains milk and wheat (gluten)
  • Check ingredient labels for allergens if using packaged products
03 -
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor
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