This creamy white pasta sauce is a hug in a bowl. Made with simple ingredients like butter, garlic, and fresh cream, it’s both rich and comforting!
Honestly, I can’t resist a pasta dish covered in this sauce. It feels fancy, yet it’s super easy to whip up on a busy night!
Pair it with some spaghetti or your favorite pasta, and you’ve got a delicious meal ready in no time. I often add a sprinkle of cheese for that extra yummy kick!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness to the sauce. If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can go for olive oil instead. It changes the flavor a bit, but still works great!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder—just add a little to taste, about ½ teaspoon!
Flour: I use all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce—it’s what most people have at home. If you’re gluten-free, cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend can be good alternatives.
Milk and Heavy Cream: Whole milk and heavy cream create that creamy texture. For a lighter version, you can substitute with low-fat milk or use a plant-based milk like almond or coconut—just check that they’re unsweetened.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. In a pinch, pre-grated works too. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic dairy-free substitute if you want a cheesy flavor without the cheese!
How Do I Make the Sauce Smooth Without Lumps?
Making a smooth white sauce can be tricky, but here are some steps to help:
- Start with a roux: Mix flour into melted butter and cook it for a couple of minutes to remove the raw taste.
- Gradually add the milk and cream: This prevents lumps. Whisk continuously as you pour in the liquids.
- Cook gently: Stir the sauce as it heats. This helps it to thicken without sticking.
- Heat until thick: Keep cooking until you see the sauce thicken—about 4-5 minutes should do it.
With these tips in mind, you’ll have a perfectly creamy and smooth white pasta sauce that you can customize as you like!
How to Make Delicious White Pasta Sauce
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
How Much Time Do You Need?
This white pasta sauce takes about 15-20 minutes to make. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes cooking the pasta and about 5-10 minutes preparing the sauce. It’s a quick and satisfying dish perfect for any weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you make the sauce.
2. Melt the Butter and Sauté Garlic:
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant but be careful not to let it brown, as this can turn the sauce bitter.
3. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the melted butter and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook the flour slightly. This will help eliminate the raw flour taste and create a nice base for your sauce.
4. Add Milk and Cream:
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, mixing well to prevent any lumps from forming. Keep stirring until the mixture begins to thicken, which should take about 4-5 minutes. The sauce should become velvety and smooth.
5. Stir in Cheese:
Once the sauce is thickened to your liking, take it off the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it has melted completely and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Now, add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly. Make sure each piece is covered in that delicious white sauce!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Your creamy white pasta is ready to be served! Dish it out and sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Enjoy your creamy white pasta with a delightful garlic and Parmesan sauce! It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole or 2% milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just choose an unsweetened variety for the best flavor!
How Can I Thicken the Sauce Further?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce while it’s simmering. Cook for an additional minute until thickened to your liking.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen it up again!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
You can add ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or grilled chicken for more texture and flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish!
