White Sauce Pasta
Creamy white sauce pasta with Parmesan and garlic, perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal. Rich, cheesy, and flavorful, ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot. Add penne pasta with salt and a little olive oil. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in all-purpose flour and cook for a minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine cooked penne with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream in place of some milk. You can also use whole wheat penne for a healthier option. To enhance flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce or incorporating sautéed mushrooms or spinach. If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
Serve white sauce pasta hot, garnished with additional parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It pairs beautifully with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables. This dish is a great option for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, especially when paired with Italian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover white sauce pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, then warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also use the microwave, but be cautious to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of White Sauce Pasta contains roughly 553 calories, with 41g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (173% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (118% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2534mg per serving (110% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. Cook the pasta just before serving to avoid it becoming mushy. When ready to serve, simply combine the pasta with the reheated sauce for a quick and easy meal.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
You can easily incorporate vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or peas into the dish. Sauté them along with the garlic in the sauce or steam them separately and mix them in before serving. This not only adds color but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).