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White Sauce Pasta

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White Sauce Pasta is a comforting, creamy dish that combines the rich, velvety texture of white sauce with the satisfying bite of pasta. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering. The creamy white sauce, made from butter, cream, and cheese, envelops each strand of pasta in deliciously rich flavor. It’s a simple yet indulgent meal that both kids and adults will love, and you can customize it with your favorite vegetables, proteins, or herbs.

Ingredients

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To make White Sauce Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine work well)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
  • Grated mozzarella cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

  1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.
  3. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later use, and set it aside.

Prepare the White Sauce:

  1. Make the Roux: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes light golden brown.
  2. Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Season the Sauce: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Add Garlic: Heat olive oil in another pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the garlic to the sauce, stirring to combine.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

  1. Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
  2. Serve: Once the pasta is coated and heated through, serve immediately.

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