Creamy White Sauce Pasta Recipe

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy White Sauce Pasta, a perfect blend of tender pasta, vibrant vegetables, and a velvety white sauce. This recipe is easy to follow, customizable, and ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Follow the steps below to create a delicious pasta dish that’s sure to impress!

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Ingredients

For Pasta

• 2 cups (200g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
• 4 cups water (to boil pasta)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

To Toss Veggies

• ¼ cup carrots (roughly chopped)
• ¼ cup onions (diced)
• ¼ cup capsicum (green bell peppers, diced)
• ¼ cup red bell peppers (diced)
• ¼ cup yellow bell peppers (diced)
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For White Sauce

• 2 tablespoons refined flour (maida)
• 2 cups (500ml) milk (preferably full-fat for creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8-10 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt

Optional Garnishes

• Grated Parmesan or processed cheese
• Fresh parsley or basil (chopped)
• Extra chili flakes (for spice lovers)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add ½ teaspoon salt and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
2. Add 2 cups pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (typically 8-10 minutes).
3. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later use. Drizzle a little olive oil over the pasta to prevent sticking and set aside.

Step 2: Toss the Veggies

1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
2. Add ¼ cup diced onions and sauté until translucent (about 1-2 minutes).
3. Add ¼ cup carrots, ¼ cup capsicum, ¼ cup red bell peppers, and ¼ cup yellow bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the veggies are slightly tender but still crisp.
4. Season with ½ teaspoon oregano, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon salt. Mix well and set the veggies aside.

Step 3: Prepare the White Sauce

1. In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add 8-10 finely chopped garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
3. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons refined flour (maida) into the pan and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste, forming a light roux.
4. Gradually pour in 2 cups milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Use a whisk if needed for a smooth consistency.
5. Cook the sauce for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
6. Season with 1 teaspoon chili flakes, ½ teaspoon oregano, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon salt. Stir well.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Veggies, and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta and sautéed vegetables to the white sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta and veggies evenly with the creamy sauce.
2. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce thickens too much, add more reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the creamy white sauce pasta to serving plates or a large platter.
2. Garnish with grated Parmesan or processed cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.
3. For extra heat, sprinkle additional chili flakes on top.
4. Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

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Tips for Success

• Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add mushrooms, broccoli, zucchini, or any other favorite vegetables.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or paneer cubes for a heartier dish.
• Cheese Lover’s Twist: Stir in ¼ cup grated cheddar or mozzarella into the sauce for extra creaminess.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute butter with vegan butter, milk with plant-based milk (like oat or almond), and skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Protein: 10-12g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 50-55g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy white sauce pasta is a crowd-pleaser, combining the richness of a garlic-infused white sauce with the crunch of colorful veggies and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s versatile, quick to make, and adaptable to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings!

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Pairing Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy pasta perfectly.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Wine: Pair with a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir.

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Enjoy this Creamy White Sauce Pasta and share your creations with us! Tag us on social media or leave a comment below with your feedback. Buon Appetito! 🍝

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