Nothing quite beats the comforting hug of a creamy, cheesy pasta, and this White Sauce Penne Pasta Recipe brings that warmth straight to your table. It’s a delightful twist on the classic alfredo-style pasta that’s so easy to whip up on a weeknight yet feels indulgently special enough for guests. The silky white sauce clings perfectly to every twist of penne, making each bite a celebration of buttery richness, gentle garlic notes, and a cheesy finish that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re a total pasta lover or just looking for a straightforward, satisfying meal, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a wonderful example of how simple pantry staples come together to create something magical. Each ingredient plays its part—whether it’s building the creamy texture, layering subtle flavors, or adding that irresistible cheesy punch.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold every bit of that luscious white sauce.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and a velvety base for the sauce without overpowering the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sauce perfectly without lumps.
- 2 cups milk (preferably whole): Creates the smooth, creamy body of the sauce and keeps it dreamy.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for richness): If you want that extra luxurious feel, this is your secret ingredient.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle, aromatic depth without the fuss of fresh garlic.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right mild kick to keep it interesting.
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional): A hint of herbaceous warmth that makes the sauce more dynamic.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star cheese—sharp, nutty, and melts to perfection for that irresistible taste.
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella (optional): For those who crave an extra cheesy, gooey finish.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and flavor to brighten the dish.
How to Make White Sauce Penne Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—this not only seasons your pasta but also prevents it from sticking. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it so it doesn’t turn mushy once mixed with the sauce. Drain the pasta well and set it aside while you prepare the luscious white sauce.
Step 2: Make the Roux Base
Now for the heart of the White Sauce Penne Pasta Recipe: the roux. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and whisk in the all-purpose flour. Keep stirring as the mixture cooks for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s golden and fragrant. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and sets the stage for a silky sauce texture.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Slowly pour in the milk and optional heavy cream while whisking constantly. This gradual addition prevents lumps from forming and ensures a smooth sauce. Once all the liquid is incorporated, add the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Continue whisking and simmering for 4 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses. They’ll melt into the sauce, adding that signature creamy, cheesy magic that defines the White Sauce Penne Pasta Recipe. Give it a few moments to become silky and smooth, then you’re ready for the next step.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne pasta directly to the saucepan and toss gently to coat every single piece in the luxurious sauce. Let it simmer together for a minute or two to meld the flavors and heat the pasta through thoroughly. This final touch ensures every bite bursts with creamy goodness.
How to Serve White Sauce Penne Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is not just a garnish but a color and flavor lift that cuts through the richness beautifully. You can also add an extra dusting of Parmesan right before serving if you want to crank up the cheese factor.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance all the creaminess. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or garlic green beans also add a nice textural contrast and brighten the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this at a dinner party, try plating the pasta in warm bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a twist of freshly cracked black pepper. You can also enhance it by topping with toasted pine nuts or crispy pancetta bites for extra crunch and flavor dimension.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
White Sauce Penne Pasta Recipe leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the creamy texture, be sure to cool the pasta before sealing it.
Freezing
While pasta with white sauce doesn’t always freeze perfectly due to the cream, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just know the texture might soften slightly when thawed, but it’s still delicious for a quick meal.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover White Sauce Penne Pasta Recipe gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk added to loosen the sauce back to that silky, smooth perfection. Stir frequently to avoid overheating and curdling.
FAQs
Can I use other pasta shapes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully because of its tubular shape, feel free to use fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle depending on what you have on hand or your personal preference.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can definitely swap the milk, cream, and cheese for dairy-free alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheeses, but keep in mind the sauce might not be quite as rich or creamy—the taste will still be enjoyable though.
How can I add more veggies to this dish?
Adding sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, or even roasted bell peppers directly into the pasta is an easy way to boost the veggie content and add layers of flavor without changing the recipe too much.
What if I don’t have all-purpose flour for the roux?
All-purpose flour is ideal for thickening, but you could try cornstarch as a substitute—mix it with a little cold milk first to make a slurry, then add it gradually to your warm sauce. The texture might differ slightly.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the white sauce a day in advance and gently reheat it when you’re ready to toss in the pasta. Just give it a good whisk and add a splash of milk if it’s too thick after refrigeration.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so genuinely satisfying about the White Sauce Penne Pasta Recipe that makes it a true go-to for cozy dinners and special occasions alike. Its ease, comforting flavors, and versatility make it an absolute winner every time. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved classic in your kitchen. Bon appétit!
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White Sauce Penne Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This White Sauce Penne Pasta recipe features perfectly cooked penne coated in a creamy, cheesy white sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Infused with garlic powder and Italian seasoning, it’s a comforting and easy Italian-American dish ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any day.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta
White Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (preferably whole)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for richness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Prepare the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream (if using) while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to the sauce. Continue whisking and cooking for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Incorporate Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella until fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring a rich and cheesy flavor.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss well to evenly coat every piece. Let the pasta and sauce simmer together for 1–2 minutes to heat through and blend the flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the creamy white sauce penne pasta warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated cheese if desired for an extra touch of flavor.
Notes
- Enhance this dish by adding sautéed mushrooms, grilled chicken, or steamed broccoli for a more complete meal.
- When reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk to loosen the white sauce and restore its creamy texture.
