Weeknight Fettuccine Alfredo Dinner
Classic, creamy, and comforting—this fettuccine Alfredo comes together in under 30 minutes with just a handful of ingredients. Add chicken, shrimp, or veggies if you want to bulk it up. Weeknight comfort food at its best.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt & cracked black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Boil fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- Start sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic (if using) and sauté for 1 minute.
- Make it creamy: Stir in cream and simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
- Add cheese: Whisk in Parmesan until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Finish: Toss pasta with the sauce, adding a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Optional Add-Ins
- Grilled chicken strips (seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder)
- Shrimp (sautéed with olive oil, garlic, and lemon)
- Steamed or roasted broccoli, asparagus, or spinach
Suggested Sides
- Garlic Bread: Toast baguette slices brushed with olive oil, garlic, and parsley until golden.
- Green Salad: Romaine or mixed greens with cucumber, tomato, and a light vinaigrette.
- Roasted Veggies: Zucchini, asparagus, or green beans tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Macros (per serving, 4 servings – pasta only)
- Calories: ~520
- Protein: ~16 g
- Carbs: ~44 g
- Fat: ~31 g
- Fiber: ~2 g