Name: White Sauce Pasta Recipe: Creamy and Comforting
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 oz dried pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine); 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 garlic cloves (minced); 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg (optional); Optional: Fresh parsley (extra Parmesan); Suggested Pairings: White wine (garlic bread)

Introduction

Table of Contents

White Sauce Pasta, also known as Creamy Alfredo Pasta, is a luxurious dish, perfect for family dinners, date nights, or comforting meals. This rich, velvety dish, featuring tender pasta coated in a creamy Parmesan white sauce, delivers a decadent, savory flavor with a smooth, luscious texture. Presented in a white ceramic bowl, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan, this White Sauce Pasta recipe offers an elegant, inviting aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a simple homemade version with accessible ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that brings indulgent Italian-inspired flavors to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the White Sauce Pasta:

8 oz dried pasta (e.g., fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh parsley, extra grated Parmesan
Suggested Accompaniments: Garlic bread, green salad
Suggested Pairings: White wine, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic bowl
Suggested Equipment: Large pot, colander, medium saucepan, whisk, measuring cups/spoons, knife

Step-by-Step Process

Cook Pasta: Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water per package instructions until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Start White Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Make Roux: Sprinkle flour over the butter and garlic, whisking constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth paste (roux).
Add Dairy: Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Season and Add Cheese: Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Continue whisking until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust with a pinch more salt, pepper, or Parmesan to ensure a balanced flavor.
Combine with Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add 1–2 tbsp of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
Serve: Transfer the pasta to a white ceramic bowl. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan. Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, white wine, or sparkling water.

Tips for Better White Sauce Pasta

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, richest sauce; pre-grated cheese may create a grainy texture.
Taste the sauce before tossing to balance creamy, savory, and nutty flavors; adjust sparingly.
Cook pasta al dente, as it will continue to soften in the warm sauce.
Whisk constantly when adding dairy to prevent lumps and ensure a silky sauce.
Present in a white ceramic bowl to highlight the creamy sauce and vibrant garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare the sauce up to 1 day in advance; store in the fridge, reheat gently, and thin with milk if needed before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.
Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with parsley or Parmesan for an elegant, colorful pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free White Sauce Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Vegan White Sauce Pasta: Replace butter with vegan butter, milk and cream with plant-based milk and cream (e.g., oat or cashew), and Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan.
Low-Fat White Sauce Pasta: Use low-fat milk instead of whole milk, reduce heavy cream to 1/4 cup, and use 1/4 cup Parmesan.
Spicy White Sauce Pasta: Add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle kick.
Vegetable White Sauce Pasta: Add 1 cup sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli to the sauce before tossing with pasta.
Protein-Packed White Sauce Pasta: Stir in 1 cup cooked shredded chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta after the sauce is made.
Herbed White Sauce Pasta: Add 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley to the sauce.
Garlic Lover’s White Sauce Pasta: Increase garlic to 4 cloves for a bolder flavor.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Do not freeze, as the creamy sauce may separate and become grainy upon thawing.
Serve warm for the best rich, velvety texture.
Use as a standalone main dish or pair with light sides for a complete meal.
Pair with white wine or sparkling water to complement the creamy, savory flavors.
Present in a white ceramic bowl with garnishes for an elegant, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings (1.5 cups each):

Calories: 520 kcal
Total Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 480mg
Total Carbohydrates: 50g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 16g
Vitamin A: 15% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 2% Daily Value
Calcium: 25% Daily Value
Iron: 10% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (vegan options reduce cholesterol). Moderate in calories; pair with light sides for balance.

Conclusion

This White Sauce Pasta recipe delivers a creamy, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or date nights, transforming simple ingredients into an indulgent favorite. Its easy preparation and elegant presentation make it a go-to. The velvety sauce and tender pasta delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing Italian charm.