White sauce pasta is a creamy, delicious, and comforting dish that can be easily prepared at home. It’s perfect for a quick meal or a dinner party. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making restaurant-style white sauce pasta.
Ingredients
For the White Sauce:
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- All-purpose flour (Maida) – 2 tablespoons
- Milk – 2 cups (warm)
- Cheese – 1/2 cup (optional, grated)
- Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt – to taste
- Oregano/Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
- Chili flakes – 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
For the Pasta:
- Penne/Spaghetti/Fusilli Pasta – 2 cups
- Water – for boiling
- Salt – 1 teaspoon (for boiling pasta)
- Olive oil – 1 teaspoon
For Vegetables (Optional):
- Bell peppers (red, yellow, green) – 1 cup, julienned
- Sweet corn – 1/2 cup
- Broccoli – 1/2 cup
- Mushrooms – 1/2 cup, sliced
- Garlic – 3-4 cloves, minced
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil water in a large pot and add 1 teaspoon of salt and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add the pasta and cook as per the package instructions until al dente (cooked but firm to bite).
- Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the White Sauce
- In a pan, melt butter on low heat.
- Add all-purpose flour (maida) and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until it turns light golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
- Gradually pour warm milk into the pan while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Keep stirring until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add salt, black pepper, oregano, and chili flakes (if using). Stir well.
- If you prefer a cheesy sauce, add grated cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables (Optional)
- Heat olive oil in a separate pan.
- Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, broccoli, and sweet corn.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta and sautéed vegetables to the white sauce.
- Mix gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving
- Serve the white sauce pasta hot, garnished with extra grated cheese or fresh parsley for added flavor.
- Pair it with garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect White Sauce Pasta
- Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm milk to adjust the consistency.
- Cheese Options: Parmesan or mozzarella cheese works best for a rich flavor.
- Make it Spicy: Add extra chili flakes or paprika for a spicy kick.
- Custom Veggies: You can use any vegetables of your choice or skip them entirely for a simpler version.
Enjoy your homemade creamy white sauce pasta, a dish loved by kids and adults alike!