15-Minute Fettuccine with Light Alfredo Sauce
If you’re looking for a quick yet delicious meal that feels indulgent without the guilt, this 15-Minute Fettuccine with Light Alfredo Sauce is exactly what you need. Perfect for busy weeknights or a simple date night, this creamy pasta dish is ready to serve in just a quarter of an hour. With a lightened-up version of the classic Alfredo sauce, you can enjoy all the rich flavors without overloading on calories. This recipe balances taste and time, making it a staple in any kitchen.
Why This 15-Minute Fettuccine with Light Alfredo Sauce Stands Out
This 15-Minute Fettuccine with Light Alfredo Sauce is not only quick to prepare, but it also embraces the essence of comfort food while keeping it light. By using low-sodium chicken stock or vegetable broth, along with fresh ingredients, the dish achieves a creamy texture and rich taste without the heaviness. The addition of nutmeg and freshly grated Parmesan elevates the flavor profile, making it feel gourmet even on a tight schedule. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that can be whipped up in mere minutes?
Gather These Ingredients
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock or vegetable broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine noodles
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 cup milk, plus an extra 1/4 cup if needed
- 1 pinch grated nutmeg
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Recommended Tools
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Skillet: To prepare the sauce and combine with pasta.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Garlic press: To easily mince the garlic.
- Whisk: For mixing the sauce smoothly.
15-Minute Fettuccine with Light Alfredo Sauce: How It’s Done
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or fettuccine noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the noodles.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
Step 3: Add the Broth
Pour in the 2 cups of low-sodium chicken stock or vegetable broth, followed by the kosher salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to cook for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Base
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk. If you prefer a creamier sauce, add the extra 1/4 cup of milk at this stage. Add a pinch of grated nutmeg for that touch of warmth.
Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese
Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, feel free to add a bit more pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until well coated. If necessary, add the remaining tablespoon of butter to enhance the richness.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Plate the pasta, garnishing it with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your 15-Minute Fettuccine with Light Alfredo Sauce warm, savoring every bite of this delightful dish.
Allergy-Friendly Substitutes
- For dairy-free: Use almond milk or oat milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- For gluten-free: Substitute the pasta with gluten-free linguine or fettuccine.
- For vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use a plant-based cheese.
Cook’s Notes
- This recipe works well with any long pasta, so feel free to experiment with your favorites.
- To make it a more hearty meal, consider adding cooked chicken or sautéed vegetables.
- If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
This 15-Minute Fettuccine with Light Alfredo Sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Questions People Ask
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes! While Parmesan is the classic choice, you can experiment with Pecorino Romano or even a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavors.
What if I don’t have chicken stock or vegetable broth?
If you don’t have either, you can use water, but the flavor will be less intense. Adding a touch of bouillon can enhance the taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a kick, add red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing or stir in some black pepper for a subtle warmth.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives to enjoy a delicious version of this dish without dairy.
Before You Go
In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a delightful bowl of 15-Minute Fettuccine with Light Alfredo Sauce that will impress your family or friends. The combination of garlic, broth, and Parmesan creates an irresistible sauce that clings to each noodle, making every bite a comforting experience. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. So go ahead, treat yourself to this quick and delicious pasta dish tonight!
15-Minute Fettuccine with Light Alfredo Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or fettuccine noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the noodles.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Pour in the 2 cups of low-sodium chicken stock or vegetable broth, followed by the kosher salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk. If you prefer a creamier sauce, add the extra 1/4 cup of milk at this stage. Add a pinch of grated nutmeg for that touch of warmth.
- Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, feel free to add a bit more pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until well coated. If necessary, add the remaining tablespoon of butter to enhance the richness.
- Plate the pasta, garnishing it with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your 15-Minute Fettuccine with Light Alfredo Sauce warm, savoring every bite of this delightful dish.
Notes
- This recipe works well with any long pasta, so feel free to experiment with your favorites.
- To make it a more hearty meal, consider adding cooked chicken or sautéed vegetables.
- If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
