If you’ve ever dreamed of a creamy, comforting Alfredo sauce that won’t weigh you down, this Greek Yogurt Alfredo Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with rich flavors and silky texture, it swaps out heavy cream and butter for tangy Greek yogurt, making it a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Whether draped over pasta or zoodles, this sauce brings warmth and indulgence without the guilt, and I can’t wait to share how simple and satisfying it is to make at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect balance of flavor and creaminess in this sauce is all about the basics, and these ingredients do just that. Each one plays a vital role, from the garlic’s aromatic punch to the Parmesan’s sharp, melty depth, creating a sauce that’s both luscious and vibrant.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps gently cook the garlic without overpowering it.
- Cornstarch: The secret to achieving a beautifully smooth, thickened sauce without cream.
- Vegetable or chicken broth: Provides a savory base that deepens the flavor while keeping it light.
- Skim milk: Keeps the sauce creamy but low in fat, balancing richness without heaviness.
- FAGE Total Plain Greek yogurt (room temperature): The star ingredient that gives the sauce its tangy creaminess and healthy protein boost.
- Minced garlic: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and a bit of zest.
- Freshly grated Parmesan: Brings nutty, salty flavor and creamy texture that’s essential to Alfredo’s classic appeal.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to layer in subtle earthiness and a touch of herbal brightness.
- Black pepper: Adds just the right hint of spice to elevate every bite.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and ties everything together harmoniously.
How to Make Greek Yogurt Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Start by heating the extra virgin olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and cook it gently for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s fragrant and just starting to golden. This step is key to infusing your sauce with that deep, savory aroma that makes Alfredo so irresistible.
Step 2: Thicken with Cornstarch
Sprinkle the cornstarch over the softened garlic and cook for another minute while stirring constantly. This helps activate the starch, which will give your sauce a luscious, silky body without clumping.
Step 3: Add Broth and Milk
Slowly pour in the vegetable or chicken broth along with the skim milk while whisking to blend everything smoothly. This gradual mixing keeps your sauce perfectly unified and sets the stage for thickening.
Step 4: Bring to a Simmer
Crank the heat up to medium-high and bring your mixture to a gentle simmer. Keep whisking for about 2 minutes until it thickens just right — thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, but still velvety.
Step 5: Incorporate the Greek Yogurt
Remove the pan from the heat to avoid curdling, and whisk in the room temperature Greek yogurt little by little. This gradual introduction keeps the sauce creamy and smooth, enhancing that wonderful tang and protein-rich goodness.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Parmesan
Place the saucepan back on medium heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt. Bring it back to a simmer and whisk constantly for another 2 minutes. This final step melds all the flavors beautifully and gives the sauce that classic cheesy depth you love.
How to Serve Greek Yogurt Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your dish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and fresh herbal notes. A few extra shavings of Parmesan work wonders too, adding a little textural contrast and a final flavor boost.
Side Dishes
This sauce pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. These sides add texture and balance, making your meal exciting and complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond classic pasta—try this sauce over spiralized zucchini noodles for a light, low-carb option or drizzle it on roasted chicken breast for a flavorful protein upgrade. It also makes a dreamy dip for soft pretzels or crusty bread, perfect for entertaining or cozy nights in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Greek Yogurt Alfredo Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It thickens upon cooling, so a gentle reheat with a splash of milk will bring it right back to its creamy glory.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it can change the texture of the Greek yogurt slightly. For best quality, freeze in small portions and thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Stir well before reheating to smooth it out.
Reheating
Reheat your sauce gently over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently. Adding a little milk or broth helps restore the creamy texture. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling and keep the sauce silky smooth.
FAQs
Can I use full-fat Greek yogurt instead of skim?
Absolutely! Using full-fat Greek yogurt will make the sauce even richer and creamier, but the skim version keeps it light while still delivering a velvety texture. Both work wonderfully depending on your preference.
Is this sauce suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Greek Yogurt Alfredo Sauce Recipe is vegetarian-friendly, especially if you use vegetable broth. Just be mindful of the Parmesan cheese, which can sometimes contain animal rennet, so look for vegetarian-labeled versions if needed.
What pasta types go best with this sauce?
Fettuccine, linguine, or tagliatelle are classic and fantastic choices because their wide surface holds the sauce beautifully. But feel free to get creative with penne, rigatoni, or even spiralized veggie noodles for a fun twist.
Can I add protein directly to the sauce?
While the sauce itself is best kept smooth, you can toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms just before serving. Adding protein makes it more filling and turns it into a wholesome one-pot meal.
How can I make this sauce dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, swap out the Parmesan for a nutritional yeast substitute and use a plant-based Greek-style yogurt. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Yogurt Alfredo Sauce Recipe is one of those kitchen treasures that combines indulgence and nutrition in the most delightful way. It’s easy to whip up, full of flavor, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a classic comfort food with a lighter twist. I hope you enjoy making and savoring it as much as I do—trust me, this sauce will become a favorite in no time!
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Greek Yogurt Alfredo Sauce Recipe
This Greek Yogurt Alfredo Sauce offers a healthier, creamy alternative to the classic Alfredo sauce. Made without heavy cream or butter, it uses Greek yogurt and simple ingredients to create a rich, flavorful sauce perfect for pasta or zoodles, combining traditional Italian seasoning with a nutritious twist.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup skim milk
- 1/2 cup FAGE Total Plain Greek yogurt, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a large saucepan, warm the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the garlic.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, to release its flavor.
- Add cornstarch: Sprinkle the cornstarch over the garlic and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux base without lumps.
- Incorporate liquids: Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and skim milk, whisking continuously to combine everything into a smooth mixture without clumps.
- Simmer and thicken: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Whisk constantly and let it cook for about 2 minutes until it begins to thicken.
- Add Greek yogurt: Remove the pan from heat and slowly whisk in the room temperature Greek yogurt a little at a time to prevent curdling and ensure a creamy texture.
- Season and finish sauce: Return the pan to medium heat. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
- Final simmer: Bring the sauce back to a simmer and cook for an additional 2 minutes while whisking constantly to fully meld the flavors and thicken the sauce.
- Serve or store: Serve the sauce immediately over your favorite pasta or zoodles. If not using right away, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
Notes
- Use room temperature Greek yogurt to avoid curdling when adding to the sauce.
- Constant whisking during simmering helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and gently reheated.
- Vegetable broth can be substituted with chicken broth based on preference or dietary needs.
- Serve over pasta, spiralized zucchini, or steamed vegetables for a low-carb option.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
