Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
Introduction
This Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo offers a lighter twist on the classic creamy pasta dish. It’s quick to make, rich in flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want comfort without the heaviness.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fettuccine noodles, broken in half
- 1 teaspoon oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk, skim or 1%
- 3 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the oil to the Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Once hot, add the minced garlic and stir for about 10 seconds, then turn off the sauté mode.
- Step 2: Add the broken fettuccine noodles and chicken broth, ensuring the noodles are completely covered. Seal the valve and cook on manual high pressure for 3 minutes. When done, allow a natural pressure release for 6 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure and open the lid. Stir gently to separate any noodles stuck together.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture into the Instant Pot along with onion powder, dried basil, dried parsley, parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. Turn on the sauté function again and stir gently until the sauce begins to thicken, then turn off the Instant Pot.
- Step 4: Let the pasta sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken further before serving. If needed, add extra parmesan cheese to reach your preferred sauce consistency.
Tips & Variations
- For a creamier sauce, substitute half of the milk with half-and-half or light cream.
- Add cooked chicken or steamed vegetables for a more filling meal.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free version.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be added at the end for a burst of fresh flavor.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes, but cooking times may vary slightly. Break longer noodles to fit in the Instant Pot evenly.
What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are good alternatives, but they will alter the flavor slightly. For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese and consider nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
PrintInstant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
This Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo is a lighter take on the classic creamy pasta dish, using low-sodium broth and skim milk to reduce fat and calories without sacrificing flavor. Prepared quickly in the Instant Pot, it features tender fettuccine noodles coated in a flavorful parmesan and garlic sauce thickened with cornstarch, making it a delicious yet healthier comfort food option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Pasta and Broth
- 8 ounces fettuccine noodles, broken in half
- 1 teaspoon oil
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
Flavor and Seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
Sauce
- 1 cup milk (skim or 1%)
- 3 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Saute garlic: Add the oil to the Instant Pot and turn on the sauté function. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and stir for about 10 seconds to release its aroma. Then turn the Instant Pot off to prevent burning.
- Cook noodles: Add the broken fettuccine noodles and chicken broth to the Instant Pot, ensuring the noodles are fully submerged in the liquid. Seal the valve and cook on manual high pressure for 3 minutes. When the cooking time ends, allow the pressure to release naturally for 6 minutes before turning the valve to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and stir the pasta to break up any pieces that might have stuck together.
- Add sauce ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and milk until smooth. Add this mixture to the Instant Pot along with the onion powder, dried basil, dried parsley flakes, and parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Turn the Instant Pot back to the sauté setting and gently stir the mixture until the sauce begins to thicken. Once thickened, turn the Instant Pot off.
- Serve: Let the sauce cool slightly as it will continue to thicken after cooking. For a thicker sauce, you can stir in additional parmesan cheese before serving. Plate the creamy fettuccine Alfredo and enjoy while warm.
Notes
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels in this dish.
- Breaking the pasta helps it cook evenly and prevents clumping.
- Allow the sauce to cool briefly to achieve optimal thickness.
- You can substitute vegetable broth to make the recipe vegetarian-friendly.
- For a richer flavor, feel free to use 1% milk instead of skim milk.
Keywords: Instant Pot, Fettuccine Alfredo, Skinny Alfredo, Low Fat Pasta, Quick Pasta Dinner, Healthy Alfredo Sauce, Parmesan Pasta
