This easy creamy white sauce is perfect for spaghetti! Made with just a few simple ingredients, it’s rich and smooth, making every bite delightful.
Whenever I make this sauce, I can’t help but smile. It’s so quick and turns my pasta into a tasty meal in no time. Plus, who can resist a creamy sauce? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter works best in this recipe as it lets you control the salt level. If you’re dairy-free, you can use olive oil or vegan butter instead.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the standard choice to thicken the sauce. For a gluten-free option, try using cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Just combine it with a bit of cold milk to make a slurry before adding!
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy texture, but if you want something lighter, you can use 2% milk. Heavy cream adds richness, but you can also use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version, although the flavor will be slightly different.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for flavor and texture. If unavailable, Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese can work as substitutes. I also love adding some cream cheese for extra creaminess!
How Do I Prevent Lumps in My White Sauce?
Creating a smooth white sauce can be tricky, but here’s how to do it!
- Always whisk the butter and flour together well to make a roux first. This step is key to avoiding lumps.
- When adding milk, do it slowly while whisking continuously. This step prevents lumps from forming.
- If lumps do appear, remove the saucepan from the heat and use an immersion blender to smooth it out.
With these tips, your white sauce should turn out creamy and delicious every time!
Easy Creamy White Sauce for Spaghetti Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked spaghetti pasta (about 8 ounces)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy white sauce takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Just gather your ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious sauce ready to toss with your spaghetti in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melt the Butter:
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Be sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t brown.
2. Cook the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1 minute until you smell its lovely aroma, but be careful not to let it burn!
3. Make the Roux:
Stir in the flour and whisk it continuously for about 1-2 minutes. You’re looking for a light golden color—this is your roux, which helps thicken the sauce.
4. Add the Milk:
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking nonstop. This helps prevent any lumps from forming, which is key for a smooth sauce!
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Continue cooking and stirring the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. It should be creamy and coat the back of a spoon.
6. Stir in the Cheese:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce.
7. Season the Sauce:
Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg to taste. Give it a good stir to blend everything together.
8. Combine with Spaghetti:
Toss the cooked spaghetti into the saucepan with the white sauce, making sure all the pasta is coated evenly with the creamy goodness.
9. Serve & Garnish:
Serve your spaghetti immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a lovely touch.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting spaghetti with this easy white sauce! It’s perfect for any occasion!
FAQ About Easy Creamy White Sauce for Spaghetti Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Mozzarella, or even a sharp Cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! Ensure your Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet to keep it vegetarian-friendly. You can also add some sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the sauce in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk to loosen it if it thickens too much.
What Should I Do If My Sauce Turns Out Lumpy?
If you encounter lumps, don’t worry! Simply remove the saucepan from the heat and use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until smooth. If you don’t have one, you can transfer the sauce to a regular blender and blend until smooth.