This creamy white pasta sauce is rich and smooth, made with simple ingredients like butter, flour, cream, and cheese. It pairs perfectly with any pasta you choose!
I love how this sauce can turn a regular meal into something special. Just toss it with your favorite noodles, and dinner feels like a treat! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: This adds richness to the sauce. For a healthier option, you can use olive oil or margarine instead. Just remember that olive oil might give a slightly different flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken the sauce. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute it with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to adjust the amount accordingly!
Milk and Cream: Whole or 2% milk works best for creaminess. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk only, but avoid non-dairy milks as they might separate when heated.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese brings a fantastic flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or even a mix of mozzarella and cheddar can work as substitutes.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the sauce’s taste. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can work too, though the flavor will be milder.
How Do I Make Sure My White Sauce Is Smooth and Creamy?
The key to a smooth white pasta sauce is the roux and whisking process. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start by melting the butter on medium heat, then add your garlic for flavor. Be careful not to burn it!
- Once your butter is melted, sprinkle in the flour while whisking. This mixture should not turn brown; just let it cook for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add the milk and cream while whisking constantly. This helps to prevent lumps from forming. Patience is key here!
- Keep cooking until the sauce starts to thicken—about 5-7 minutes—and it’s okay to lower the heat to avoid scorching.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure your white sauce is creamy and delightful. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make White Pasta Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked pasta of your choice (about 8 ounces)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This white pasta sauce takes about 15 minutes of cooking time. Plus, depending on how quickly your pasta cooks, you might only need to wait a few extra minutes to bring everything together. In no time, you’ll have a delicious and creamy dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Base:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in the minced garlic. Cook this for about 1 minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant but be careful not to let it brown.
2. Create the Roux:
Next, sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and garlic. Use a whisk to mix it all together continuously for about 2 minutes. You want a smooth paste, known as a roux, so make sure the flour doesn’t brown.
3. Add Dairy Gradually:
Now it’s time to make it creamy! Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously. This helps prevent any lumps from forming. Keep cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens and starts to bubble gently—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the Cheese:
Lower the heat a bit and add the grated Parmesan cheese to the thickened sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Season to Taste:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your sauce, adjusting to your taste. It should be flavorful but not overly salty.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Now, take your cooked and drained pasta and toss it in the white sauce until everything is well coated and creamy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your pasta hot! Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a lovely touch. Enjoy your delicious creamy white pasta sauce!
Can I Use Low-Fat Milk in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk like 1% or skim milk, but keep in mind that the sauce may not be as creamy. To compensate, you might want to add a bit more cheese or a touch of extra cream to enhance the richness.
What If My Sauce Is Too Thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add a little more milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, while whisking until you reach your desired consistency. Remember to heat gently after adding to blend everything nicely.
Can I Make This Sauce Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil, use plant-based milk (like almond or soy), and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative. For cheese, nutritional yeast can give you a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to help loosen the sauce as it can thicken in the fridge.
