If you’re looking for a comforting yet elegant dish, white sauce pasta is the answer. This creamy pasta dish, infused with a rich béchamel sauce, is a delight to both the eyes and the palate. Perfectly paired with sautéed vegetables or protein, it’s versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, this recipe will guide you to create a pasta dish that is sure to impress. Let’s get started on this culinary journey!
Ingredients
– 250g pasta (fettuccine or penne)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
– Optional: sautéed mushrooms or vegetables
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 cup): approximately 420 calories, 18g fat, 55g carbohydrates, and 12g protein. Please note this is based on traditional ingredients and can vary based on specific brands used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until golden.
5. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Cook the sauce until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
7. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
8. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
9. Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and optional sautéed mushrooms.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute regular pasta with whole grain or gluten-free options. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk instead of whole milk. Additionally, you can add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Serving and Pairings
White sauce pasta pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the sauce may separate.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not whisking the sauce constantly can lead to lumps.
- Overcooking the pasta will make it mushy.
- Using low-quality cheese can affect flavor.
- Not seasoning the sauce adequately can result in bland pasta.
- Skipping the fresh herbs can diminish freshness.
Helpful Tips
- For added flavor, sauté garlic in the butter before adding flour.
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar.
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for garnish.
- Cook pasta in the sauce for the last minute for enhanced flavor.
FAQs
Can I use non-dairy milk for white sauce pasta?
Yes, non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk can be used, but it may alter the flavor slightly. Choose unsweetened varieties for the best results.
What type of pasta is best for white sauce?
Fettuccine and penne are excellent choices due to their ability to hold the creamy sauce well. However, you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently before mixing with freshly cooked pasta.
Is white sauce pasta healthy?
While it is delicious, white sauce pasta is rich in calories and fat. For a healthier version, consider using whole-grain pasta and reducing the amount of cheese used.
How can I make white sauce pasta spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the white sauce for an extra kick. You can also include sautéed jalapeños for additional heat.
Conclusion
White sauce pasta is a versatile and comforting dish that can be customized to suit your taste. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a festive gathering. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and make this dish your own!
White Sauce Pasta
Ingredients
- 250 g pasta fettuccine or penne
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Optional: sautéed mushrooms or vegetables
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until golden.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Cook the sauce until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and optional sautéed mushrooms.
Nutrition
