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Creamy White Sauce Pasta

A classic comfort food, this creamy white sauce pasta is easy to make and incredibly delicious. Perfect for a weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound Penne pasta
  • 1/2 cup Butter
  • 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
  • 3 cups Milk (whole milk recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon Garlic powder Optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon Onion powder Optional
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Grated, plus extra for serving
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley Chopped, optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until smooth and bubbly (roux).
  3. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until sauce thickens (a few minutes).
  4. Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
  6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley (if using).

Notes

For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of some of the milk. Adding cooked chicken, vegetables, or mushrooms makes a heartier meal.