Fettuccine Alfredo
Wide ribbons of fettuccine in a sauce of cream, butter and Parmesan offer a rich, luxurious taste. The challenge with Alfredo isn't a fast rise in blood sugar (the dense fat slows stomach emptying and keeps the glycemic index moderate, ≈48) but its high calorie density, which calls for smart eating.
Glycemic index
Glycemic load
Calories
Protein
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
Keep fettuccine Alfredo for special occasions, and always add lean protein such as grilled chicken breast or shrimp, so you are less tempted to eat large amounts of pasta on its own.
Best preparation methods
Make a lighter version at home by replacing part of the heavy cream with natural chicken broth or unsweetened milk, with real Parmesan, a little garlic and nutmeg for an authentic, lighter flavour.
Important Nutritional Note
If you watch your blood fats and heart health, note that the classic restaurant Alfredo is very high in saturated fat, so sharing the plate is an excellent healthy decision.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (250 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal | 575 kcal |
| Protein | 7.2 g | 18 g |
| Carbohydrate | 27.3 g | 68.2 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 25.9 g | 64.8 g |
| Fat | 10.1 g | 25.2 g |
| Dietary fibre | 1.4 g | 3.5 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
Among the foods in Italian dishes with a glycemic index (9), it ranks 2 (lowest first).
Smart alternatives from the same family:
- Whole Wheat PastaGlycemic index 42
- Spaghetti CarbonaraGlycemic index 50
- Spaghetti BologneseGlycemic index 50
Frequently asked questions
Is Fettuccine Alfredo good for weight loss?
It can fit a balanced plan with portion control: a 250 g portion gives 575 kcal, and what matters most is your total daily intake and the rest of the meal.
How does Fettuccine Alfredo affect blood sugar?
Its glycemic index is 48 (Low), a clinically reviewed estimate rather than a laboratory measurement. A typical 250 g portion has a glycemic load of 31.1 (High), so it is best to reduce or split the portion and combine it with protein and fibre.
What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of Fettuccine Alfredo?
A typical 250 g portion of Fettuccine Alfredo provides about 575 kcal, 18 g protein, 68.2 g carbohydrate, 25.2 g fat and 3.5 g fibre.
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.