White Sauce Pasta

Name: White Sauce Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 250 g pasta (penne or fettuccine); 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup grated cheese (Parmesan or mozzarella); 2 cloves garlic (minced); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (basil or parsley for garnish)

If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that’s rich and creamy, look no further than white sauce pasta. This delightful recipe combines perfectly cooked pasta with a velvety white sauce that’s both simple to make and absolutely delicious. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this culinary delight!

Ingredients

250g pasta (penne or fettuccine)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup grated cheese (Parmesan or mozzarella)
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (basil or parsley) for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 plate) contains approximately 450 calories, 15g of protein, 20g of fat, and 55g of carbohydrates. This is for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Boil water in a large pot and add salt.
Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the grated cheese until melted and smooth.
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and mix well to coat.
Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh herbs.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the pasta with gluten-free options or use a dairy-free milk alternative for a vegan version. Additionally, add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Serving and Pairings

White sauce pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp garden salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A light white wine can also complement this dish perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover white sauce pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. It’s not recommended to freeze as the sauce may separate.

Cooking Mistakes

Not salting the pasta water can lead to bland pasta.
Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy texture.
Adding cold milk to the roux can cause lumps.
Using low-quality cheese can affect the sauce flavor.
Skipping the garlic may reduce the depth of flavor.

Helpful Tips

For a richer flavor, use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for boiling pasta.
Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
Experiment with different herbs for unique flavor profiles.
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

FAQs

Can I make white sauce pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the pasta fresh before serving to maintain its texture.

What type of pasta works best for white sauce?

Any pasta can work well, but fettuccine or penne are excellent choices as they hold the sauce well.

Is white sauce pasta healthy?

While it’s delicious, white sauce pasta can be high in calories and fat. Consider using whole grain pasta and reducing cheese for a healthier version.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be added for extra protein.

How can I make it spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

White sauce pasta is a versatile and comforting dish that can be customized to suit your taste. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this dish any night of the week for a satisfying meal!