There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially when it’s drizzled in a creamy white sauce. The other day, I found myself in need of a quick yet satisfying dinner after a long, hectic workday. As I rummaged through my pantry, my eyes landed on penne pasta and a few staple ingredients I always keep on hand—milk, garlic, and parmesan.
With just 30 minutes to spare, I whipped up this White Sauce Penne Pasta dish that transformed my evening. The rich aroma of sizzling garlic and melted cheese filled my kitchen, immediately lifting my spirits. What I love about this recipe is its simple elegance; it’s so easy to prepare yet feels like a fancy restaurant dish. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or simply craving a home-cooked meal, this creamy delight is sure to please. Plus, you won’t believe how quickly it comes together! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises a comforting dinner any night of the week.
Why You'll Love This White Sauce Penne Pasta
- This White Sauce Penne Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
- The creamy white sauce paired with tender penne pasta offers a rich, comforting flavor that will satisfy any pasta lover.
- Its versatility means you can easily customize it by adding your favorite proteins or veggies for a complete meal.
- Not only is it visually appealing with its glossy sauce and vibrant toppings, but it also works beautifully for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
White Sauce Penne Pasta Ingredients
• Get ready for creamy perfection!
For the Pasta
- Penne pasta – 250 g, provides the perfect shape to hold the creamy sauce.
For the White Sauce
- Unsalted butter – 2 tbsp, adds rich flavor and helps create a silky base.
- All-purpose flour – 2 tbsp, thickens the sauce to a dreamy consistency.
- Milk – 1 cup (warm), makes the sauce creamy; use whole milk for extra richness.
- Garlic – 2 cloves (minced), infuses the sauce with aromatic goodness.
For Flavor
- Parmesan cheese – 0.5 cup (grated), brings umami and depth to your White Sauce Penne Pasta.
- Salt – to taste, enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- Black pepper – to taste, adds a subtle kick that balances the creaminess.
How to Make White Sauce Penne Pasta
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the penne pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and save a little pasta water to adjust the sauce later.
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Sauté the Garlic: In a medium pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn as it will turn bitter.
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Create the Roux: Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes, cooking it out until it’s slightly golden. This will help create a thick, smooth sauce without any floury taste.
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Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking constantly. This helps to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until you have a creamy sauce that begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
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Season the Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, add salt and black pepper to taste. This is your moment to adjust for flavor, so trust your palate!
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Incorporate the Cheese: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and continue to mix until melted and smooth. The cheese will transform the sauce into a rich, velvety delight.
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Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to ensure each piece is coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creaminess.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or extra parmesan for a touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with White Sauce Penne Pasta?
Create a delightful meal that complements the creamy richness of your pasta dish.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread adds a crunchy contrast that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Caesar Salad: Fresh romaine tossed with crispy croutons and tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the pasta’s richness.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted to caramelized perfection enhances the meal with vibrant flavors and textures.
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Sautéed Spinach: Garlic and olive oil sautéed spinach offers a nutritious, bright side that cuts through the creaminess of the pasta.
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Lemon-Garlic Shrimp: Add a touch of sophistication with sautéed shrimp; the citrus notes brighten up the dish in a fantastic way.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay elevates the experience with its crisp acidity, making it a perfect pairing for creamy pasta.
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Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a decadent note with light, airy chocolate mousse—the luxuriously smooth texture is heavenly!
Make Ahead Options
These White Sauce Penne Pasta preparations are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to simplify meal planning! You can prepare the creamy white sauce up to 3 days in advance by following the initial steps—just whip up the butter, garlic, and flour base, then gradually incorporate the warm milk and parmesan. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently on low heat, adding a splash of milk to maintain its creamy texture, and mix in the cooked penne pasta. This way, you'll enjoy a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort after a long day!
How to Store and Freeze White Sauce Penne Pasta
Fridge: Store leftover White Sauce Penne Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to regain creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your White Sauce Penne Pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Use a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a little milk as needed for a smooth texture.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy it fresh or transformed into a baked pasta dish—just sprinkle some extra cheese on top and pop it in the oven until bubbly!
White Sauce Penne Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delicious twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute penne with gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini for a lighter option. Both provide a delightful texture while keeping it gluten-free.
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Vegetable Boost: Stir in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted broccoli to add color and nutrition. This not only enhances flavor but also makes your dish more wholesome.
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Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or cooked sausage for a more filling meal. These proteins lend a savory depth that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
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Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh basil, parsley, or thyme to brighten up the flavor profile. Herbs elevate the dish, bringing a burst of freshness that’s irresistible.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for heat. This little twist can turn a comforting classic into a spicy delight that tantalizes your taste buds.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate some smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke for a unique, deep flavor. This adds an intriguing complexity that takes your pasta to a whole new level.
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Creamy Vegan: Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and nutritional yeast instead of dairy ingredients for a creamy vegan version. You’ll be surprised by how creamy and flavorful it can be!
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Cheesy Bliss: Experiment with different cheeses like gruyère, goat cheese, or feta for a flavorful variation. Each cheese provides its own distinct taste and character to the dish.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your penne pasta is perfectly al dente, taste it a minute or two before the suggested cooking time ends.
- When making the white sauce, whisk constantly to eliminate lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.
- If you find your sauce too thick, gradually incorporate the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired creaminess.
- For a richer taste in your White Sauce Penne Pasta, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat options.
- Always sauté garlic over medium heat to prevent it from burning, which can add an unpleasant bitterness to your dish.
White Sauce Penne Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for White Sauce Penne Pasta?
Absolutely! For the best flavors, choose fresh garlic with firm, unblemished skin and avoid any bulbs with dark spots. When it comes to parmesan cheese, opt for a block that’s flavorful and crumbly rather than pre-grated, as it melts beautifully and enhances the sauce.
How should I store leftover White Sauce Penne Pasta?
Very simply! Place the leftover pasta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to help restore its creamy texture. Just gently warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through.
Can I freeze White Sauce Penne Pasta?
Definitely! To freeze, let the pasta cool completely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in a saucepan. Add a little milk as needed for a smooth consistency.
What should I do if my white sauce is too thick?
If you encounter a thick sauce, no worries at all! Start by adding a splash of the reserved pasta water as you mix. If it’s still too thick, keep adding small amounts until you reach your desired creaminess. Whisking continuously will help incorporate the water evenly.
Is this recipe safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For those with dairy allergies, you can substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine and the milk with a nut or oat milk. If you're concerned about gluten, use gluten-free penne pasta, and be sure to check that your flour is certified gluten-free as well. Always double-check the ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
White Sauce Penne Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the penne pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and save a little pasta water to adjust the sauce later.
- In a medium pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden to create a thick, smooth sauce.
- Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until you have a creamy sauce that begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, add salt and black pepper to taste to adjust flavor.
- Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water until desired creaminess is reached.
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