Creamy White Sauce Pasta Recipe – Quick & Delicious Comfort Food
Creamy, rich, and full of flavor, this White Sauce Pasta Recipe is a comfort food classic that never goes out of style. Made with butter, flour, milk, and cheese, the white sauce (also known as béchamel) coats every bite of pasta in silky goodness. Perfect for weeknight dinners, quick lunches, or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk (preferably warm)
- ½ cup grated mozzarella or parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon mixed Italian herbs or oregano
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: chopped vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, sweet corn)
Step-by-Step Instructions/Method
Step 1: Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a pan, heat olive oil and lightly sauté vegetables (if using) until soft. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: In the same pan, melt butter on medium heat. Add flour and stir continuously to form a smooth roux (about 1-2 minutes).
Step 4: Gradually add warm milk while stirring to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs. Mix well.
Step 6: Add cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Step 7: Add cooked pasta and sautéed vegetables to the sauce. Mix until evenly coated.
Step 8: Cook for another 2 minutes. Serve hot and garnish with extra cheese or herbs if desired.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings
Makes 2-3 servings
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Carbs: 48g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a pan with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Not recommended for freezing as the sauce may separate.
Pairings/Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted veggies.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or lemon iced tea.
Seasonal Relevance
This white sauce pasta is perfect for any season, but especially delightful in spring and winter when creamy dishes bring warmth and comfort.
White Sauce Pasta Recipe
2.3
servings10
minutes15
minutes420
kcalThis White Sauce Pasta Recipe is a creamy, cheesy delight made with butter, flour, milk, and pasta. Perfect for a quick lunch or cozy dinner, it’s easy to prepare and packed with rich, comforting flavor. Customize with veggies or protein for a satisfying meal!
Ingredients
2 cups pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups milk (preferably warm)
½ cup grated mozzarella or parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
½ teaspoon mixed Italian herbs or oregano
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: chopped vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, sweet corn)
Directions
- Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a pan, heat olive oil and lightly sauté vegetables (if using) until soft. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt butter on medium heat. Add flour and stir continuously to form a smooth roux (about 1-2 minutes).
- Gradually add warm milk while stirring to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs. Mix well.
- Add cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta and sautéed vegetables to the sauce. Mix until evenly coated.
- Cook for another 2 minutes. Serve hot and garnish with extra cheese or herbs if desired.
Recipe Video
Notes
- The White Sauce Pasta Recipe is a classic comfort dish featuring a smooth, creamy béchamel sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Made with simple ingredients like butter, flour, milk, and cheese, it’s easy to prepare and endlessly customizable with veggies or proteins. Ideal for quick meals and family favorites!
FAQs
Q1: Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Yes! You can substitute with any pasta of your choice—just adjust boiling time as needed.
Q2: What milk works best in white sauce?
Whole milk gives the creamiest result, but low-fat or plant-based milks like oat or almond work well too.
Q3: Why is my white sauce lumpy?
Make sure to stir continuously while adding warm milk to the roux. Whisking helps prevent lumps.
Conclusion
This White Sauce Pasta Recipe is a rich, satisfying meal that comes together quickly with simple pantry staples. Creamy, cheesy, and endlessly customizable—it’s the perfect go-to recipe for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Serve it up hot and enjoy the comforting flavors in every bite!
