Description
This Healthy Alfredo Sauce is a creamy, lighter twist on a classic comfort food favorite that is perfect for a quick breakfast, easy dinner, healthy snack pairing, simple lunch, and everyday food ideas. Made with garlic, Parmesan, milk, broth, and spinach, this easy recipe delivers rich Alfredo flavor with a smoother, lighter finish that works beautifully for pasta nights, dinner ideas, and wholesome homemade meals.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 cup low-fat milk
2 ounces light cream cheese
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Pinch nutmeg, optional
8 to 12 ounces cooked pasta
1/4 cup reserved pasta water, as needed
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and cook for 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a smooth roux.
3. Slowly whisk in the broth, then add the milk and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken.
4. Reduce the heat and stir in the light cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.
5. Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and optional nutmeg, then stir until creamy.
6. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until wilted.
7. Add the cooked pasta and toss until coated, using reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
8. Serve hot with extra Parmesan and black pepper if desired.
Notes
Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
Keep the heat low once the cheese is added so the sauce stays silky.
Reserved pasta water helps adjust the consistency without thinning the flavor too much.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sauce / Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 28mg