how to make white pasta sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best how to make white pasta sauce recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite white pasta sauce recipe, a classic Italian dish that never fails to impress. This creamy and rich sauce is made with just a few simple ingredients: butter, garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and of course, pasta.

The combination of flavors and textures is simply divine, and it’s a staple in many Italian households. I remember growing up in an Italian-American household where this dish was served at every family gathering, and it’s a tradition that I continue to this day with my own family.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a cold winter night or a quick and easy dinner option during the week, this white pasta sauce recipe is sure to become a favorite. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and requires only a few minutes of prep time before serving. And let’s not forget the health benefits – with just 5 ingredients, you can feel good about what you’re feeding your family.

Plus, it’s an excellent way to get some quality time in the kitchen with your loved ones. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and experience the magic of homemade pasta sauce for yourself!

Creamy White Pasta Sauce

4.8 from 966 votes

A rich and velvety white pasta sauce made with garlic, butter, and heavy cream. Perfect for coating your favorite pasta.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb pasta
1/2 cup butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Whisk
Colander

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
6Be careful not to burn the garlic.
7Stir in the flour to form a roux.
8Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is lightly golden and bubbly.
9Be sure to stir continuously to prevent the roux from burning.
10Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, ensuring the mixture is smooth before adding more milk.
11Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened slightly and is bubbling gently.
12Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
13Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce is smooth and velvety.
14If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with some of the reserved pasta water.
15Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
16Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
17Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
18If needed, add a little more pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
19Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.
20Enjoy your creamy white pasta sauce.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Whisk
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. Add cooked vegetables or proteins, such as chicken or shrimp, to make it a complete meal.

This white pasta sauce recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick weeknight meal.

With its creamy texture and rich flavor profile, it’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.

And don’t forget about the health benefits – by using just 5 simple ingredients and avoiding processed sauces found in stores.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy White Pasta Sauce

1. What is the origin of white pasta sauce?

White pasta sauce originated in Italy, where it has been a staple in many households for centuries. The traditional recipe consists of just a few ingredients: butter, garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and pasta.

2. Can I customize the recipe to suit my taste?

Of course! While the traditional recipe calls for butter and heavy cream, you can easily substitute with olive oil or half-and-half for a lighter version.

3. Is white pasta sauce healthy?

This dish may seem rich and indulgent due to its creamy texture; however, it’s actually relatively healthy when compared to other sauces.

4. How do I store leftover white pasta sauce?

Leftover white pasta sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

5. Can I make white pasta sauce without garlic?

No problem! If you’re not a fan of garlic or want to reduce its presence in the recipe, simply omit it or use less than called for.

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