Skinny Alfredo Garlic Parmesan (Printable)

A lighter take on creamy garlic Parmesan pasta using whole wheat noodles and reduced-fat ingredients.

# What You Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz 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 cheese for serving

# How-To Steps:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup 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 flour over garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to form a roux.
04 - Gradually whisk in warmed skim milk, ensuring a smooth mixture. Continue whisking until 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 sauce is smooth and creamy.
07 - Add drained pasta to sauce and toss to coat evenly. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water, adding a little at a time if needed.
08 - Plate immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese as desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Light and creamy with reduced-fat ingredients
  • Quick and easy to prepare in 30 minutes
02 -
  • This recipe can be made gluten-free by substituting gluten-free pasta and flour
  • For added protein, top with grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp
03 -
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency perfectly
  • Whisk constantly when adding milk to avoid lumps in sauce
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