Homemade creamy white sauce for pasta in a bowl garnished with herbs

Creamy White Sauce for Pasta

BySam
Spread the love
Jump to Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

White sauce, also known as béchamel, is a creamy delight that can elevate any pasta dish. It’s easy to whip up and uses simple ingredients often found in your kitchen. Making your own white sauce means you can control the flavors and texture, making it perfect for your pasta cravings. Whether you’re looking for something creamy for your fettuccine or a smooth sauce to coat your penne, this recipe has you covered.

How to Make White Sauce for Pasta

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons butter  
2 tablespoons margarine  
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour  
1 cube chicken bouillon, crumbled  
1.5 cups boiling water  
1 cup 2% milk  
ground white pepper to taste

Directions:

  • Gather the ingredients.
  • Melt butter and margarine in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
  • Add flour and crumbled bouillon; stir until well blended, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Continue to cook and stir until thickened and lightly browned, approximately 5 minutes.
  • Increase the heat to medium and whisk in boiling water until smooth.
  • Stir in milk; cook and stir until the sauce is hot and thickened, about 2 to 3 more minutes.
  • Season with white pepper to taste.

How to Serve White Sauce for Pasta

White sauce can be served with any pasta of your choice. It goes wonderfully with fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti. Just pour the sauce over the cooked pasta and toss gently. You can also add veggies, chicken, or shrimp to create a heartier meal. Sprinkle some grated cheese on top for extra flavor and serve warm.

How to Store White Sauce for Pasta

If you have leftover white sauce, let it cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3 to 4 days. When ready to use, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring until warmed through.

Tips to Make White Sauce for Pasta

  1. Stir Constantly: Keep stirring the sauce while it cooks to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
  2. Adjust Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add more milk or water until you reach your desired consistency.
  3. Flavor Boost: Feel free to add some garlic powder, grated cheese, or herbs like parsley for added flavor.

Variation

You can switch up this recipe by using vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon for a vegetarian option. Additionally, add grated cheese to the sauce to make a cheesy white sauce perfect for baked pasta dishes.

FAQs

Can I use olive oil instead of butter and margarine?

Yes, you can use olive oil, but the flavor will be different. The sauce may not be as creamy.

Is it possible to make white sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to use it.

What can I do if my sauce ends up lumpy?

If your sauce is lumpy, try blending it with an immersion blender or whisking vigorously until smooth.

Homemade creamy white sauce for pasta in a bowl garnished with herbs

White Sauce

A creamy béchamel sauce that's perfect for elevating your pasta dishes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Pasta, Sauce
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Sauce Base
  • 2 tablespoons butter Use unsalted for better control of seasoning.
  • 2 tablespoons margarine
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour Ensure it's sifted for a smoother texture.
  • 1 cube chicken bouillon, crumbled For a vegetarian version, substitute with vegetable broth.
  • 1.5 cups boiling water
  • 1 cup 2% milk Use whole milk for a creamier sauce.
  • to taste ground white pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Gather the ingredients.
Cooking
  1. Melt butter and margarine in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
  2. Add flour and crumbled bouillon; stir until well blended, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  3. Continue to cook and stir until thickened and lightly browned, approximately 5 minutes.
  4. Increase the heat to medium and whisk in boiling water until smooth.
  5. Stir in milk; cook and stir until the sauce is hot and thickened, about 2 to 3 more minutes.
  6. Season with white pepper to taste.

Notes

For a heartier meal, consider adding veggies, chicken, or shrimp. Grated cheese can enhance the flavor further.

Sam
Latest posts by Sam (see all)

Similar Posts