White Sauce Pasta

Name: White Sauce Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 200 g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine); 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup grated cheese (Parmesan or Mozzarella); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; Fresh parsley for garnish; Optional: cooked chicken or vegetables

Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. White sauce pasta is a classic Italian dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With its creamy béchamel sauce, this pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can add vegetables, chicken, or seafood to make it your own. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe will delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more!

Ingredients

200g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup grated cheese (Parmesan or Mozzarella)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional: cooked chicken or vegetables

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

One serving (100g) of white sauce pasta contains approximately 350 calories, 12g of protein, 15g of fat, and 45g of carbohydrates. This is per one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Boil water in a large pot and add salt.
Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
While pasta cooks, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add flour to the melted butter and whisk for about 1 minute to create a roux.
Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Cook the sauce until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Add grated cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to the sauce.
Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce, mixing well to coat.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free options. For a lighter sauce, use low-fat milk or a milk alternative. Additionally, incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Serving and Pairings

White sauce pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. A glass of white wine complements this dish perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover white sauce pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to the pasta and warm it in a saucepan over low heat. This dish can be frozen, but the sauce may change in texture upon thawing.

Cooking Mistakes

Not salting the pasta water can lead to bland pasta.
Overcooking the pasta will make it mushy.
Cooking the roux too long can result in a burnt taste.
Adding cold milk to the roux may cause lumps.
Forgetting to whisk continuously can lead to a lumpy sauce.

Helpful Tips

Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce.
Experiment with different herbs for unique flavors.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
For a richer flavor, add a splash of cream to the sauce.

FAQs

What pasta is best for white sauce pasta?

Any long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine works well, but you can also use penne or rotini for a different texture. The key is to choose a pasta that will hold the sauce well.

Can I make white sauce pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. Combine it with freshly cooked pasta just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How can I make white sauce pasta healthier?

You can use whole wheat pasta, low-fat milk, and add plenty of vegetables to increase its nutritional value while keeping it delicious.

Is white sauce pasta vegetarian?

Yes, this dish is vegetarian as it primarily consists of pasta, butter, cheese, and milk. You can customize it with vegetables or omit cheese for a vegan option.

Can I freeze white sauce pasta?

While you can freeze it, the sauce may separate when thawed. It’s best to freeze the sauce and pasta separately, then combine them when reheating.

Conclusion

White sauce pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. With its creamy texture and endless possibilities for customization, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.