This creamy white pasta sauce is a hug in a bowl! Made with simple ingredients like butter, garlic, and cream, it turns your noodles into a tasty treat.
It’s perfect for those days when you want comfort food without a fuss. I love tossing in some veggies or chicken for an easy weeknight meal that feels special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used penne for this recipe, but you can swap it with any pasta you like, such as fettuccine, macaroni, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try using olive oil or a plant-based butter. It’ll still give a nice richness to the sauce!
Heavy Cream & Milk: This combination makes the sauce creamy. You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream if you want something lighter. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream and almond or oat milk work great!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use Pecorino Romano or even a good quality store-bought grated cheese—but fresh is always best!
How Do I Make the Sauce Smooth and Creamy?
The key to a smooth white pasta sauce is to keep the heat low when adding the cream and cheese. This prevents the sauce from curdling. Here’s how to do it:
- After melting the butter, sauté the garlic but avoid browning it, which can alter the flavor.
- When you add the cream and milk, stir constantly until it’s just simmering. Don’t let it boil!
- Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring to help it melt evenly.
- Adjust with salt and pepper at the end to keep that creamy texture intact!
How to Make White Pasta Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne or your favorite pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy white pasta sauce is quick to make! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and another 10-15 minutes for cooking. In just around 25-30 minutes, you can have a delicious pasta dish on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling some salted water in a large pot. Add the penne pasta and cook it based on the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and gently sauté for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it to make sure the garlic doesn’t brown—just enough to become fragrant!
3. Create the Creamy Base:
Next, lower the heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream and whole milk. Stir everything together and let it heat gently until the mixture just begins to simmer. No boiling here, as we want a smooth sauce!
4. Add the Parmesan:
Slowly sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly. Keep mixing until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes nice and smooth. You’ll start to smell that delicious cheese aroma!
5. Season the Sauce:
Now it’s time to season your sauce! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Taste as you go to get it just right for you.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix it well, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water or more milk to reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve It Up:
Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top, if you like. It’s all ready to dig in!
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Take a moment to enjoy the aroma and color of your creamy white pasta sauce. Serve it warm and enjoy a delightful meal with family or friends!
Can I Use Low-Fat Dairy Instead of Heavy Cream and Whole Milk?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat milk or half-and-half for a lighter option! Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy, but it will still taste delicious. You might want to add a little extra cheese to enhance the flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and prevent it from thickening too much. Microwave or heat gently on the stove while stirring.
Can I Add Vegetables or Protein?
Absolutely! This white pasta sauce pairs well with vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or even mushrooms. You can also add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal. Just toss them in with the pasta before serving!
What If My Sauce Turns Out Lumpy?
If your sauce turns out lumpy, don’t worry! Simply use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until smooth, or put it in a regular blender and blend carefully. Reheat gently after blending to get that creamy texture back!