This White Sauce Pasta is a rich, creamy, and cheesy dish made with buttery béchamel sauce, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta. It’s a classic comfort food that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or a special homemade meal. This recipe is vegetarian but can be customized with chicken, shrimp, or other proteins for added variety!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Pasta

10 oz (300g) penne pasta (or any pasta of choice)
5-6 cups water
1 tablespoon salt

For the White Sauce

2 tablespoons butter (salted or unsalted)
1 teaspoon minced garlic
¼ cup finely chopped onions
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1½ cups warm whole milk (full-fat milk)
¼ cup unsweetened heavy cream
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Vegetables (Optional)

½ cup sliced carrots
½ cup broccoli florets
½ cup sliced mushrooms
½ cup cubed mixed bell peppers

For Garnish

Handful of fresh basil (roughly torn)
Extra red pepper flakes & dried oregano

Directions

Cook the Pasta

Bring 5-6 cups of water to a boil in a large pot over high heat.
Add salt and reduce the heat to medium.
Add uncooked pasta and cook for 8-9 minutes until al dente (firm to the bite).
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the remaining water and set the pasta aside.

Prepare the White Sauce

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and onions and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in carrots, broccoli, mushrooms, and bell peppers (if using) and cook for another minute.
Add all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously to form a roux.
Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Add salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes, and continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
Mix in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted.

Combine the Pasta & Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, along with ½ to 1 cup of reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
Stir everything together and let it cook for 1 minute on medium heat.
Mix in fresh basil, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish with extra oregano and red pepper flakes before serving.

Nutrients (Per serving, estimated)

Calories: 440 kcal
Carbohydrates: 61g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Sodium: 419mg
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g
Vitamin A: 3852 IU
Calcium: 132mg

Storage Tips

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to maintain the creamy texture.
Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate upon thawing.

Why White Sauce Pasta is a Must-Try Recipe

This pasta is a staple in Italian cuisine, loved for its rich and smooth béchamel sauce that brings out the best in simple ingredients. The sauce, also known as “roux-based white sauce,” is the foundation of many French and Italian dishes, making this recipe a great introduction to classic European cooking techniques.

White Sauce Pasta is not only delicious and creamy, but it is also:

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Works great with chicken, shrimp, or extra veggies for added variety.
Kid-Friendly: The mild and creamy flavors make it a hit with kids.
Comforting & Satisfying: The rich, cheesy sauce and tender pasta make for a hearty meal.
Great for Meal Prep: It can be stored and reheated, making it a convenient leftover option.

Whether you serve it on its own or with a side of garlic bread or salad, this White Sauce Pasta is guaranteed to impress.

The Key Elements of a Perfect White Sauce Pasta

Perfectly Cooked Pasta for the Best Texture

The base of any great pasta dish is perfectly cooked al dente pasta. Cooking the pasta until firm to the bite ensures that it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.

A crucial tip is to reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps loosen the sauce while ensuring it sticks well to the pasta. This simple trick makes a big difference in texture and consistency.

A Silky and Buttery White Sauce (Béchamel Sauce)

The heart of this dish is the creamy white sauce, which is made by creating a roux with butter and flour, then gradually whisking in warm milk to create a smooth, lump-free consistency.

For extra creaminess and depth of flavor, this recipe also includes:

Heavy cream: Adds a rich, luxurious texture.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Provides extra cheesiness and depth.
Oregano and red pepper flakes: Give the sauce a subtle, aromatic kick.

A common mistake when making white sauce is adding cold milk directly to the roux, which can cause lumps. To avoid this, always use warm milk and stir continuously to keep the sauce smooth and silky.

Vegetables for Extra Flavor and Nutrition

While this pasta is delicious on its own, adding vegetables enhances its flavor, texture, and nutritional value. Some great veggie additions include:

Carrots – Adds a slight sweetness and vibrant color.
Broccoli – Provides a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.
Mushrooms – Enhances the umami depth of the dish.
Bell Peppers – Adds a subtle crunch and natural sweetness.

Vegetables should be sautéed lightly before adding to the sauce to maintain their crispness and flavor.

Customization: Adding Protein for a Heartier Dish

This White Sauce Pasta is vegetarian, but it can be easily customized with proteins like:

Grilled chicken – A lean and delicious option.
Shrimp – Adds a seafood twist.
Crispy bacon or pancetta – For a smoky flavor.
Tofu or paneer – A great vegetarian protein alternative.

Adding protein turns this pasta into a well-balanced meal while keeping it comforting and filling.

Serving Suggestions for White Sauce Pasta

This pasta is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides to complete the meal. Some great serving ideas include:

Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery side that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Side Salad: A fresh salad with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: A side of grilled zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers adds a nutritious boost.
Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup or minestrone complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

For an extra fancy presentation, garnish the pasta with:

Fresh basil leaves for a touch of herbal freshness.
Extra shredded cheese for extra cheesiness.
A drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

Why This Dish is Perfect for Any Occasion

White Sauce Pasta is a dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, including:

Weeknight Dinners: A quick, no-fuss meal that’s ready in minutes.
Special Occasions: Looks elegant and tastes gourmet, making it great for celebrations.
Potlucks & Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Kids’ Meals: Creamy, cheesy, and mild flavors make it kid-approved.
Date Night: A restaurant-style meal you can make at home.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making White Sauce Pasta

Overcooking the Pasta

Pasta should be cooked until al dente, as it continues to absorb moisture from the sauce. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and lose its texture.

Not Stirring the Sauce Constantly

A creamy white sauce requires constant stirring to prevent lumps. Always whisk while adding milk and keep the heat low to medium to avoid burning.

Skipping the Pasta Water

Pasta water helps create a smooth, restaurant-quality sauce. Adding a little reserved starchy water makes the sauce glossy and helps it cling to the pasta better.

Adding Cold Milk to the Roux

Adding cold milk can cause the sauce to become clumpy and uneven. Always warm the milk slightly before adding it to the flour-butter mixture.

How to Store and Keep White Sauce Pasta Fresh

While White Sauce Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored for later use:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy consistency.
Do Not Freeze: The sauce may separate upon thawing, making freezing not ideal for this dish.

Why You Should Add This Recipe to Your Cooking Routine

White Sauce Pasta is a comforting, creamy, and easy-to-make dish that delivers gourmet flavors with minimal effort. It is:

Quick and hassle-free, perfect for busy days.
Customizable with different proteins, veggies, and flavors.
Rich, creamy, and indulgent without being overwhelming.
A great way to introduce kids to pasta in a fun and delicious way.

Conclusion

White Sauce Pasta is a timeless dish that brings together the best of creamy, cheesy goodness and comforting flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a simple vegetarian meal or customize it with chicken or shrimp, it’s a versatile recipe that will never disappoint.

Once you try this easy, foolproof White Sauce Pasta, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite in your meal rotation!

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White Sauce Pasta (Bechamel Sauce Pasta)