White Pasta Sauce Recipe

If creamy comfort in a bowl is what you’re after, this White Pasta Sauce Recipe will absolutely steal the show at dinnertime. Rich, savory, and oh-so-easy to whip up, this sauce transforms simple pantry staples into a restaurant-worthy meal the whole family will crave. Every velvety bite wraps perfectly around tender penne, coating each piece in a silky embrace of parmesan and subtle garlic. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this is one pasta night you’ll want on repeat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s beauty in simplicity, especially when it comes to this White Pasta Sauce Recipe. Each ingredient plays a starring role, bringing either creamy texture, deep flavor, or just the right touch of seasoning to the finished dish.

• 1 lb Penne Pasta: The perfect bite-sized tube pasta that holds onto every drop of the luscious sauce.
• 1/4 cup Butter: Adds richness and helps create the base of the velvety sauce.
• 1/4 cup Flour: This thickens the sauce to that perfect, creamy consistency.
• 2 tsp Minced Garlic: Brings a warm, aromatic depth that balances the richness beautifully.
• 1 cup Chicken Broth: Infuses savory flavor and keeps the sauce light without sacrificing creaminess.
• 1 cup Milk: Delivers that classic creamy base—whole milk gives the best texture, but 2% will work too.
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Salty, nutty, and essential for the unmistakable character of the sauce.
• 1/2 tsp Salt: Brings out all the flavors while ensuring the sauce never tastes flat.
• 1/2 tsp Pepper: Adds just a hint of warmth to balance the creaminess.

How to Make White Pasta Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil, and add your penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until just al dente—remember it will finish cooking a little when tossed with the sauce. Drain the pasta but save a bit of the water, just in case you want to thin your sauce later.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Sauté the Garlic

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it turns glossy and starts to foam. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, stirring constantly so it doesn’t brown. This step really lets the garlic flavor infuse the butter, setting up a flavorful foundation for your White Pasta Sauce Recipe.

Step 3: Add the Flour for a Roux

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the butter-garlic mixture and whisk continuously. Keep this going for about one minute—the idea is to cook out the raw flavor of the flour while forming a smooth, golden roux that’s the backbone of your creamy texture.

Step 4: Whisk in Milk and Broth

Now comes the magic. Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring as the mixture heats; it should start to thicken and bubble in just a few minutes. This is where the luscious creaminess of the White Pasta Sauce Recipe is born.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan, Salt, and Pepper

Toss in the grated parmesan, salt, and pepper, whisking until everything is beautifully melted and blended. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—you want it just salty enough to heighten all the flavors, but not overpower that delicious parmesan.

Step 6: Toss With Pasta and Serve

Add your warm penne pasta directly into the sauce and toss to coat every piece. If the sauce feels a bit thick, splash in some reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Serve immediately for the freshest, silkiest result.

How to Serve White Pasta Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

For a gorgeous finish, top each bowl with a little extra grated parmesan, a dusting of fresh cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. If you’re feeling indulgent, a zest of lemon or a few red pepper flakes can add an exciting pop of flavor and color.

Side Dishes

This creamy White Pasta Sauce Recipe shines when paired with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Warm, crusty bread is also a must—perfect for swiping up every last bit of sauce. Roasted veggies or grilled chicken make fantastic, simple additions as well.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not serve the pasta in brightly colored bowls or shallow pasta plates for a little visual drama? For dinner parties, consider topping with roasted cherry tomatoes or a drizzle of truffle oil. You can also serve family-style with a big serving spoon for a cozy, communal touch that makes everyone feel at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the cooled White Pasta Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal freshness and texture.

Freezing

While cream-based sauces can sometimes change in texture when frozen, you can freeze the sauce by itself (without pasta) for up to a month. Cool the sauce completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat the White Pasta Sauce Recipe, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it seems too thick. Stir occasionally until everything is steaming and silky again; avoid high heat, which can cause the sauce to separate.

FAQs

Can I make this White Pasta Sauce Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and you’ll have a completely vegetarian-friendly version that’s just as creamy and delicious.

What if I want a thicker or thinner sauce?

The thickness is easy to adjust as you go. Add a splash of extra milk or a little reserved pasta water if it gets too thick, or simmer it a bit longer for a thicker consistency.

Can I use another type of cheese?

While parmesan brings that classic flavor, feel free to experiment with romano or asiago for a bolder, sharper taste. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated.

Is this White Pasta Sauce Recipe gluten-free?

If you swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta, you can easily make this dish gluten-free—and still perfectly creamy!

Can I add meat or veggies to this sauce?

Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, grilled chicken, or shrimp all pair beautifully with the White Pasta Sauce Recipe, making it a flexible base for your favorite add-ins.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you’re inspired to give this White Pasta Sauce Recipe a spot in your regular dinner rotation. It’s rich, comforting, and endlessly customizable—perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to!

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