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cheesy white sauce pasta-1

Cheesy White Sauce Pasta

Creamy, indulgent, and loaded with cheese, this Cheesy White Sauce Pasta is a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Silky white sauce coats al dente pasta, with a triple-cheese blend, creating a warm, comforting main course.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 persons
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 320 grams pasta (penne or fusilli) about 4 cups dry
  • 40 grams unsalted butter 3 tablespoons
  • 30 grams all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons
  • 500 ml milk whole or 2%
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt plus more for pasta water
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg optional
  • 100 grams cheddar cheese, grated 1 cup packed
  • 100 grams mozzarella cheese, shredded 1 cup packed
  • 60 grams parmesan cheese, grated 2/3 cup
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped optional for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 colander
  • 1 medium saucepan
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 wooden spoon
  • 1 measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the pasta.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is bubbling but not browned to form a roux.
  4. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Stir in salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg. Add grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the parmesan cheese.
  6. Add drained pasta to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water until desired creaminess is achieved.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

You can add cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for a heartier meal.
Use freshly grated cheese for best melting and flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of milk if needed.