Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo

If you’re craving a creamy, dreamy pasta dish but want to keep things light and healthy, this Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo is just what you need. This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of traditional fettuccine alfredo with a lighter twist, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, cooking in the Instant Pot means you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time, with minimal cleanup!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo is everything you love about creamy pasta without the guilt. Here’s what makes it a must-try:

• Quick and easy preparation in under 30 minutes.
• Healthier ingredients that don’t sacrifice flavor.
• One-pot cooking for easy cleanup.
• Customizable to fit your dietary preferences.
• A family-friendly meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredient Rundown

To whip up this delicious Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 ounces fettuccine noodles, broken in half
• 1 teaspoon oil (olive or avocado oil work well)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup milk, skim or 1%
• 3 teaspoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley flakes
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Appliances & Accessories

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following appliances and accessories on hand:

• Instant Pot – Your best friend for fast, one-pot meals.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring ingredients.
• Grater – For fresh parmesan cheese that adds wonderful flavor.

Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the easy steps to create your Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo.

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Turn on your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Add the oil and let it heat up for about a minute. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

Step 2: Add the Noodles

Add the broken fettuccine noodles to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and stir well to ensure the noodles are submerged. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the timer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Quick Release

Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to “Venting.” Be cautious of the steam!

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

After the pressure has released, open the lid and stir the noodles. In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, cornstarch, onion powder, dried basil, and dried parsley flakes. Pour this mixture into the pot and stir well.

Step 6: Add the Parmesan

Turn the Instant Pot back to the “Sauté” function and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Once thickened, remove the pot from heat and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve your Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo immediately, garnished with extra parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

Fit It to Your Goals

One of the best things about this Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo is that it can easily be adapted to fit your dietary needs:

• For a vegan version, substitute the parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative and use plant-based milk.
• Add in your favorite vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
• For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Swap out the fettuccine for whole wheat or gluten-free noodles based on your preference.

Steer Clear of These

While this recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition, there are a few things to avoid:

• Do not use pre-grated parmesan cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the sauce.
• Avoid overcooking the noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Be cautious with added salt, especially if using regular chicken broth, as it can make the dish too salty.

Storage & Reheat Guide

If you have leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so good!), here’s how to store and reheat:

Allow the Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave in short intervals or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Popular Questions

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free parmesan cheese for a delicious dairy-free version.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you enjoy a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before serving to spice things up!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo is perfect for meal prep. Just store in individual containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Definitely! While fettuccine is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you like. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

Because You Liked This

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love these delicious pasta dishes:

• Bread Bowl Chicken Alfredo
• Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta In 25 Minutes
• Cheesy Alfredo Chicken Pasta Casserole

The Takeaway

This Instant Pot Skinny Fettuccine Alfredo is not only quick and easy but also a lighter option that still captures the essence of the classic dish. It’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your health goals in check. So gather your ingredients, fire up that Instant Pot, and prepare for a creamy, cheesy delight that the whole family will love!