It was one of those evenings when I wanted to make something quick but comforting. I had pasta in the pantry and some cream in the fridge, and I thought, “Why not make a creamy, rich pasta dish?” I remembered a simple white sauce pasta recipe I had tried before and decided to go with it. The dish was so delicious that it quickly became one of my go-to comfort foods. It’s the kind of meal you can make on a busy weeknight when you need something easy but satisfying.
The best part about this white sauce pasta recipe is that it is customizable. You can add vegetables, chicken, or even seafood to make it your own. The creamy white sauce coats the pasta perfectly, making each bite feel like a little indulgence. Whether you’re having it for a cozy dinner at home or serving it for guests, this dish always hits the spot.
| Servings | Total |
| 4 | 30mins |
Where Did You Learn This Recipe?
I first learned this white sauce pasta recipe from a friend who loves to cook. She made it for us one evening, and I was hooked from the first bite. The creamy sauce was just the right consistency, and the pasta was perfectly coated. After that, I decided to try making it myself. Over time, I tweaked the recipe to suit my taste and make it even quicker to prepare. Now, it’s a staple in our kitchen.
Why White Sauce Pasta
White sauce pasta is one of those dishes that’s both simple and comforting. It’s creamy, savory, and delicious. Unlike tomato-based sauces, which can sometimes be a bit tangy or acidic, white sauce gives you a smooth, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the pasta. It’s versatile, too—you can add your favorite vegetables or protein to make it a complete meal. Whether you’re making it for yourself or feeding a crowd, white sauce pasta is always a hit.
What is White Sauce Pasta Made of?
White sauce pasta is made with a few basic ingredients that come together to create a creamy, flavorful dish:
- Pasta – Any type of pasta works, but I usually go with penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
- Butter – Adds richness to the sauce.
- Flour – Used to thicken the sauce.
- Milk or cream – The base for the creamy sauce.
- Garlic – Adds a fragrant depth of flavor.
- Cheese – Parmesan or cheddar gives the sauce its cheesy flavor.
- Salt and pepper – For seasoning.
- Optional: You can add cooked chicken, vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or even shrimp to make the dish heartier.
What to Have with White Sauce Pasta
White sauce pasta pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Garlic bread – A crispy, buttery bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Green salad – A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
- Grilled vegetables – Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the pasta’s creamy texture.
- Soup – A light vegetable or tomato soup works well as a starter.
Is White Sauce Pasta Healthy?
While white sauce pasta is undeniably creamy and indulgent, it can still be a part of a balanced meal when enjoyed in moderation. The sauce is made with butter and cream, which adds richness, but you can lighten it up by using half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of full cream. You can also use whole wheat pasta for added fiber or add vegetables like spinach or broccoli to boost the nutritional value. While it’s not the lightest meal, it’s certainly a delicious treat when you want something comforting.
Kitchen Equipment
You’ll need:
- Large pot for boiling the pasta
- Skillet or saucepan for making the sauce
- Whisk for mixing the sauce
- Measuring spoons and cups for the ingredients
- Stirring spoon for the pasta and sauce
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (any shape)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk or cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked chicken, spinach, or mushrooms
How to Make White Sauce Pasta
- Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the White Sauce:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Add the Milk:
- Slowly pour in the milk or cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. If you’re adding chicken, spinach, or mushrooms, stir them in now.
- Serve:
- Serve the white sauce pasta hot, with extra Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top if desired. Enjoy your favorite side dishes.
Tips
- Lighten it up – Use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of cream to reduce the richness.
- Add protein – You can make this dish even heartier by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or ground beef.
- Make it vegetarian – Add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for a healthy twist on the classic recipe.
- Use fresh garlic – Fresh garlic gives a better, more aromatic flavor than garlic powder.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the white sauce and pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and then combine them and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
While it’s not ideal for freezing due to the creamy sauce, you can freeze the sauce separately. Just reheat the sauce and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to eat.
Conclusion
This easy white sauce pasta recipe is a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting. With just a few ingredients and a short amount of time, you can create a creamy, cheesy dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this pasta is sure to be a hit. Enjoy it as is or add your favorite ingredients to make it your own!
MORE RECIPES
Easy White Sauce Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling the pasta
- Skillet or saucepan for making the sauce
- Whisk for mixing the sauce
- Measuring spoons and cups for the ingredients
- Stirring spoon for the pasta and sauce
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (any shape)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk or cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked chicken, spinach, or mushrooms
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Slowly pour in the milk or cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. If you're adding chicken, spinach, or mushrooms, stir them in now.
- Serve the white sauce pasta hot, with extra Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top if desired. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes.