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Lemon fettuccine alfredo in a pan with a wooden serving spoon.
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Creamy Lemon Fettuccine Alfredo

Creamy Lemon Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich, velvety pasta dish with a bright citrus twist, combining Parmesan, heavy cream, garlic, and fresh lemon for a perfectly balanced flavor.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 804kcal
Author Tina Frank

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • (1) 16-ounce box fettuccine noodles
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest use lots for extra lemon flavor
  • Italian parsley chopped (garnish)

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the rest. Toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
  • In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  • Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Cook over low-medium heat for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring a smooth melting process. Adjust heat to low if necessary.
  • Stir in fresh lemon juice and lots of lemon zest. Taste the sauce and season with salt and black pepper.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat in the lemony cream sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
  • Finish with Parsley: Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
  • Serve Immediately: Plate the lemon fettuccine Alfredo and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.

Notes

Elevate this Dish: You can elevate this dish by adding grilled chicken or shrimp, fresh steamed broccoli florets, or even crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

Nutrition

Calories: 804kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 80g | Saturated Fat: 48g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 22g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 228mg | Sodium: 692mg | Potassium: 209mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 2784IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 424mg | Iron: 0.4mg