Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo

Are you craving a creamy, luscious pasta dish without the guilt? Look no further than this Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo! This recipe allows you to indulge in the classic flavors of fettuccine alfredo while keeping it light and wholesome. With just a handful of ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s dive into this creamy goodness that’s perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals!

Why This Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo Stands Out

This Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo is not only quick and easy, but it’s also lighter than traditional recipes. Using skim or low-fat milk instead of heavy cream, along with a careful balance of seasonings, ensures you get that classic taste without all the calories. The Instant Pot makes cooking the pasta a breeze, infusing it with flavors from the broth and garlic, resulting in a dish that’s creamy, comforting, and satisfying. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup?

Ingredient Breakdown

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 ounces fettuccine noodles, broken in half: The star of the dish, providing that classic pasta texture.
• 1 teaspoon oil: A small amount for sautéing garlic and adding depth to the flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a robust flavor that elevates the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the overall taste.
• 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth): The base liquid for cooking the pasta, adding richness without excess sodium.
• 1 cup milk (skim or 1%): A lighter alternative to heavy cream, keeping the dish creamy yet healthy.
• 3 teaspoons cornstarch: This thickener helps achieve that perfect creamy consistency.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• ½ teaspoon dried basil: A hint of herbal flavor that complements the garlic.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes: For a touch of color and freshness.
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: The finishing touch that adds richness and a cheesy flavor.

What’s in the Gear List

To whip up this Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials:

• Instant Pot: The star of the show, perfect for quick cooking and pressure cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Essential for stirring and mixing ingredients.
• Grater: For freshly grating parmesan cheese, which is key to flavor.

Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo: From Prep to Plate

Ready to create this delightful dish? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Begin by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add 1 teaspoon of oil and let it heat up briefly. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 2: Add the Noodles and Broth

Next, add the broken fettuccine noodles directly into the pot. Pour in the 2 ½ cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring that the noodles are submerged. This will infuse the pasta with flavor as it cooks.

Step 3: Season It Up

Sprinkle in salt, pepper, onion powder, dried basil, and dried parsley flakes. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, making sure the noodles are evenly distributed in the broth.

Step 4: Cook Under Pressure

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, making sure the steam release valve is set to the sealing position. Set the pot to cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

After removing the lid, stir the cooked fettuccine. In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the pot and stir to combine. The heat will help thicken the sauce.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Finally, stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the creamy fettuccine Alfredo into bowls, garnish with extra parsley or cheese if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy this comforting dish knowing it’s a lighter version of the classic!

What to Use Instead

If you’re looking to customize this recipe, consider these alternatives:

• Pasta: Swap fettuccine for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a different twist.
• Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
• Milk: Unsweetened almond milk or oat milk can be substituted for a dairy-free option.
• Cheese: Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan alternative, offering a cheesy flavor.

Behind the Recipe

This Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo was inspired by the need for a quick, healthy dinner that didn’t sacrifice flavor. Traditional fettuccine Alfredo can be heavy and rich, but by using lower-fat ingredients and the Instant Pot’s efficiency, this version keeps the comfort while being lighter on calories. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

How to Store & Reheat

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce seems too thick upon reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up. Stir well to maintain that creamy texture!

Common Questions

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used in this recipe, though cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the milk with almond or oat milk and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese for a delicious dairy-free version.

How do I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a spicy kick that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container. Just note that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Because You Liked This

If you enjoyed this Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo, you might love these recipes too:

• Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
• Instant Pot Vegetable Soup
• Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese
• Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff

Save & Share

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to save it for later or share it with your friends! Cooking is always better when shared with others.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo is sure to impress. Its creamy texture and rich flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy your cooking adventure and delight in every bite of this lightened-up classic.