introduction
This White Sauce Pasta is creamy, mild, and easy to make. It uses simple ingredients you likely have at home. For a full dinner, try it with a warm side like baked caesar chicken with creamy parmesan sauce.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe because it is quick, comforting, and great for weeknights. It uses few ingredients and tastes rich without hard work. Kids and adults like the creamy texture and mild flavor.
how to make White Sauce Pasta
Ingredients :
200g pasta (fettuccine or penne), 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 2 cups milk, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, Salt to taste, Black pepper to taste, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions :
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a paste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder; mix until smooth.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the white sauce and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
how to serve White Sauce Pasta
Serve the pasta hot on plates or in a wide bowl. Add extra grated Parmesan on top if you like. For a fuller meal, pair it with a side like baked chicken burritos with cheesy green chili sauce or a simple salad.
how to store White Sauce Pasta
Cool the pasta to room temperature before storing. Put it in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Do not freeze the pasta with the sauce; the texture may change.
tips to make White Sauce Pasta
- Use whole milk for a richer sauce.
- Whisk the milk in slowly to avoid lumps.
- Cook the roux (butter + flour) for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
- Add a little pasta cooking water if the sauce gets too thick.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for protein.
- Stir in steamed broccoli or spinach for more vegetables.
- Replace Parmesan with a mix of cheeses (cheddar or mozzarella) for a different taste.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm flavor twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other pasta shapes?
A: Yes. Penne, fettuccine, or any pasta you like will work.
Q: Can I make the sauce with low-fat milk?
A: Yes, but the sauce will be less creamy. You can add a little extra cheese to help.
Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: In the fridge, the pasta stays good for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I add garlic or onion fresh instead of powder?
A: Yes. Sauté minced garlic or onion in the butter before adding the flour.
Q: Can I freeze the sauce alone?
A: You can freeze the sauce, but the texture may change. Thaw and reheat slowly, stirring well.
Conclusion
For another simple take on creamy pasta, see the Lil’ Luna creamy garlic penne pasta recipe.
White Sauce Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a paste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder; mix until smooth.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the white sauce and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.