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White Sauce Pasta

White Sauce Pasta

Creamy, rich, and perfectly seasoned white sauce pasta made with a smooth béchamel base and melted cheese.A comforting, restaurant-style meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups pasta penne, fusilli, or macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups warm milk
  • ½ cup grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon chili flakes optional
  • Optional Add-Ins:
  • ½ cup chopped bell peppers
  • ½ cup sweet corn
  • ½ cup broccoli florets
  • ½ cup sliced mushrooms
  • ½ cup grilled chicken or shrimp

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pan over medium heat, melt butter completely. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Do not let it brown.
  3. Slowly pour in warm milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
  4. Add minced garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, and chili flakes. Stir well and let simmer gently.
  5. Stir in grated cheese and mix until fully melted and smooth.
  6. Add cooked pasta and optional vegetables or protein. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  7. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm milk and stir.
  8. Garnish with extra cheese or fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Always use warm milk to prevent lumps in the sauce.
  • Whisk continuously when adding milk.
  • Do not overcook pasta — keep it al dente.
  • Add milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
  • For extra richness, add 1 tablespoon heavy cream.
  • Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded.