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White sauce pasta

Creamy White Sauce Pasta (Easy & Delicious)

A classic creamy pasta dish made with a simple yet flavorful white sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

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

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. 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).
  3. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until smooth and thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Reduce heat to low.
  4. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water if needed to thin.
  6. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat.
  7. 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.