Craving a luscious Alfredo sauce but out of heavy cream? This Alfredo sauce recipe without heavy cream uses pantry staples like cream cheese and milk to deliver a velvety, indulgent sauce with a lighter twist. Perfect for pasta nights or as a base for casseroles, this recipe keeps the creaminess while dialing back the calories. Who says comfort food can’t be both easy and wholesome?
Alfredo Sauce Recipe Without Heavy Cream
Cuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy4
servings4
minutes10
minutes220
kcalThis simple Alfredo sauce recipe without heavy cream uses cream cheese and milk to create a creamy, rich pasta sauce that’s lighter but just as indulgent.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Melt the Butter:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. - Add the Cream Cheese:
Whisk in the cream cheese until melted and smooth. It might look clumpy at first but will smooth out as it warms. - Incorporate Milk:
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture is creamy and lump-free. - Add Parmesan and Nutmeg:
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and nutmeg, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. - Season and Serve:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve over pasta, vegetables, or protein.
Notes
- For a thinner sauce, add a splash of milk or pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor—it melts better than pre-shredded.
- This sauce thickens as it cools, so reheat gently with added milk if needed.
Tips for a Creamy Alfredo Sauce Without Heavy Cream
- Enhance Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or lemon zest for a tangy twist.
- Dietary Adjustments: Substitute whole milk with almond milk for a dairy-sensitive version.
- Batch Cooking: Make a double batch and freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve this sauce over fettuccine, roasted veggies, or even as a creamy pizza base.
Recipe Variants
- Alfredo Sauce Recipe Cream Cheese Without Heavy Cream: For a lower-fat option, use light cream cheese and 2% milk.
- Garlic Alfredo Sauce: Double the garlic for an extra bold flavor.
- Vegan Alfredo Sauce: Swap cream cheese with cashew cream and milk with unsweetened almond milk.
FAQ
You can use a roux base (butter and flour) combined with milk for a similar creamy texture.
Yes, as long as your Parmesan cheese and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
This Alfredo sauce recipe without heavy cream proves you can enjoy the creamy decadence of classic Alfredo without the extra calories or specialty ingredients. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or prepping a special meal, this light and flavorful sauce is sure to impress. Try it with fettuccine, roasted vegetables, or even as a dip—it’s versatile, easy, and always satisfying.
If you want to try other delicious sauces, try the Creamy Yellow Spaghetti Sauce Recipe and the Taco Sauce Recipe!
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