Creamy White Sauce Pasta (Easy & Delicious)
A classic creamy pasta dish made with a simple yet flavorful white sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Colander
- Whisk
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Penne pasta
- 4 tablespoons Butter
- 4 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 3 cups Whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg optional
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese shredded, optional
Instructions
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms (roux).
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until smooth and thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Reduce heat to low.
- Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water if needed to thin.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of some of the milk. Add cooked vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for a heartier meal. You can also experiment with different cheeses.