If you’ve ever dreamed of indulging in a creamy, rich Fettuccine Alfredo without the guilt, then this recipe is for you! Light Fettuccine Alfredo offers all the flavors of the classic dish while being lighter on the waistline. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious bowl of pasta that feels decadent yet is surprisingly wholesome. Grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of creamy goodness!

The Upside of Light Fettuccine Alfredo

This Light Fettuccine Alfredo is an absolute game-changer. By swapping out some of the heavyweight ingredients typically found in traditional Alfredo, we’re able to create a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. You’ll enjoy all the richness you crave without feeling weighed down afterward. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast.

Gather These Ingredients

To make Light Fettuccine Alfredo, you’ll need the following ingredients:

8 oz fettuccine pasta, uncooked
1 1/2 Tbsp butter
1 1/2 Tbsp flour
1 1/4 cups milk
2 Tbsp heavy cream
1 tsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
1/4 tsp garlic powder, to taste
1 1/2 oz finely shredded Parmesan (1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp slightly packed)
2 oz Neufchatel cheese (1/3 less fat cream cheese), diced into cubes
Freshly ground white or black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish, optional
Finely shredded Romano cheese or more Parmesan for serving, optional (not added to calorie count)

What’s in the Gear List

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen gear:

A large pot for boiling pasta
A medium saucepan for the sauce
A whisk for combining ingredients
A measuring cup and spoons for accuracy
A spatula for stirring
A colander for draining the pasta

Step-by-Step: Light Fettuccine Alfredo

Now that you have your ingredients and gear ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the fettuccine pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and golden. This roux will give your sauce a lovely base.

Step 3: Add Milk and Cream

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Once thickened, stir in the lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, and the diced Neufchatel cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked fettuccine into the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Sprinkle in the finely shredded Parmesan and mix until well combined.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed. If you like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional cheese before serving.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

For those who need to accommodate dietary restrictions, here are some easy swaps:

Use gluten-free fettuccine pasta made from rice or chickpeas.
Substitute the milk with almond milk or oat milk.
Replace Neufchatel cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Omit the heavy cream or use a plant-based cream.

Troubles You Can Avoid

Creating the perfect Light Fettuccine Alfredo is all about technique. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Don’t rush the roux—allow it to bubble for a minute to prevent a raw flour taste.
Be patient when adding the milk; whisk continuously to avoid lumps.
Adjust seasoning gradually; start with the recommended amounts and taste as you go.
Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente to avoid mushiness when mixed with the sauce.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

This dish is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, here are tips to keep it fresh:

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Avoid freezing the pasta, as it may become mushy upon thawing.

Try These Next

Once you’ve mastered this Light Fettuccine Alfredo, why not branch out? Here are some delicious recipes to try:

Time to Try It

Now that you have everything you need to make your own Light Fettuccine Alfredo, it’s time to get cooking! This dish is perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal at home. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process of creating something truly delightful. Your taste buds will thank you!

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