Craving a comforting and utterly delicious pasta dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this creamy cheesy white sauce pasta recipe, inspired by the classic café fare you love. Forget complicated techniques and long ingredient lists; this recipe focuses on simple, fresh ingredients to create a rich and satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. The velvety smooth sauce coats each strand of pasta perfectly, creating a symphony of creamy texture and cheesy goodness. Imagine the warm, comforting aroma filling your kitchen as you savor each bite.
This irresistible creamy white sauce pasta is incredibly versatile; feel free to add your favorite protein, vegetables, or herbs to customize it to your taste. Ready to create your own culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step process and transform simple ingredients into a truly unforgettable pasta experience.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- White pan
- Whisk
Ingredients
- Penne pasta shells (small size): 2 cups
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Oil: 2 teaspoons
- Unsalted butter: 3 cubes
- Garlic: 5 cloves, finely chopped
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Carrots: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Green capsicum: 1/4 cup, finely chopped
- Red capsicum: 1/4 cup, finely chopped
- Sweet corn: 1 cup, fresh cooked
- Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Chili flakes: 1 teaspoon
- All-purpose flour: 3 tablespoons
- Milk (boiled and cooled): 1 liter
- Cheese slices: 4
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pasta and Vegetables
- Cook pasta shells until about 90% done in boiling water with 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Strain pasta and set aside.
- In a white pan, sauté finely chopped garlic, onion, carrots, green and red capsicum in 2 teaspoons of oil and 3 cubes of butter.
- Add 1 cup of sweet corn and season with 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1 teaspoon chili flakes.
- Mix the cooked pasta with the sautéed vegetables.
Step 2. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
- In a separate pan, melt 4 cubes of butter over low heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until smooth.
- Gradually add the boiled and cooled milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, until you have a creamy white sauce.
- Season the sauce with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon chili flakes, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
- Add cheese slices to the sauce and let it melt gently.
Step 3. Combine and Simmer
- Combine the pasta and vegetable mixture with the creamy white sauce. Cook over low heat for about 5 minutes, ensuring everything is well coated.
Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- You can use other vegetables like mushrooms or broccoli.
- Don't overcook the pasta; aim for 90% done.
- Be careful not to make the sauce too thick; the pasta will absorb some of the sauce.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Experiment with Parmesan, Gruyere, or a blend of your favorites. Cheddar or Fontina would also work well.
2. What can I add to make it a complete meal?
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for a more substantial dish.
This creamy cheesy white sauce pasta recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an incredibly satisfying meal. From weeknight dinners to special occasions, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary efforts!