White sauce pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish loved by people of all ages. With its rich and velvety sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta, it's a delightful treat that is surprisingly easy to make at home. Let's dive into the recipe for this delectable white sauce pasta:
Ingredients (serves 2-3):
- 8 oz (225g) penne or any pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, but it adds richness)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional but enhances the flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Optional Add-ins:
- Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or cooked bacon for protein
- Sautéed vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Prepare the white sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth paste, known as a roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, but be careful not to let it brown.
3. Add the milk and cream:
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. If you're using heavy cream, add it at this stage for a richer sauce. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens and reaches a creamy consistency, usually taking about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season the sauce:
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, nutmeg (if using), and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to your taste preference. Keep in mind that the Parmesan cheese already adds a salty flavor, so taste before adding additional salt.
5. Combine the sauce and pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the white sauce, tossing them together until the pasta is thoroughly coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water gradually to achieve the desired consistency.
6. Optional add-ins:
If you're incorporating any protein or sautéed vegetables, now is the time to add them to the pasta and sauce mixture. Toss everything together, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
7. Serve and garnish:
Transfer the white sauce pasta to serving plates and sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves for a burst of color and added freshness.
Enjoy your homemade creamy and flavorful white sauce pasta! It pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. Bon appétit!
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