White Sauce Pasta

White Sauce Pasta, also known as Pasta in Bechamel Sauce, is a classic Italian dish that has gained worldwide popularity for its creamy, comforting taste. This dish combines the smooth texture of pasta coated in a rich and velvety white sauce, usually made from butter, flour, and milk. It’s a versatile meal that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
The beauty of White Sauce Pasta lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor achieved with just a few ingredients. It’s a testament to the magic of Italian cooking, where the focus is on quality ingredients coming together to create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. This recipe is adaptable, allowing for the addition of vegetables, chicken, or seafood to suit your taste, making it a staple that never gets boring.
Ingredients

- 1 cup pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 minced garlic clove for fresher taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: cooked vegetables (like broccoli, mushrooms, peas), cooked chicken, or shrimp
Step-wise Process for making White Sauce Pasta
- To make White Sauce Pasta, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until a smooth roux forms.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps. Add the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. If using, also add the optional vegetables, chicken, or shrimp at this stage.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to warm through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Number of Servings
- This recipe of White Sauce Pasta serves 2-3 people.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Important Points
- Continuously whisk the sauce to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more milk if it’s too thick or cooking it longer if too thin.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper before combining with the pasta.
How to Serve

Serve the White Sauce Pasta hot, garnished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a few turns of black pepper. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
White Sauce Pasta is a testament to the beauty of Italian cuisine, where simplicity meets flavor in every bite. This dish is not only easy to make but also endlessly customizable to fit any preference or occasion. Whether enjoyed on a quiet evening at home or served to guests at a dinner party, it’s sure to impress with its creamy richness and comforting warmth.
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