White Sauce Spaghetti

If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy dish that’s both simple and satisfying, then White Sauce Spaghetti is about to become your new favorite go-to meal. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl—rich, velvety, and with just the right amount of seasoning. Think tender spaghetti coated in a silky white sauce made from butter, cream, and a blend of savory seasonings. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat for yourself, this recipe has your back!

Why You’ll Love White Sauce Spaghetti

Creamy & Dreamy: The star of the show here is the white sauce. It’s a creamy, velvety sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti, creating a luscious, comforting dish that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for when you’re craving something comforting but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Versatile: You can easily tweak the flavors to suit your preferences. Want a little kick? Add some crushed red pepper flakes. Prefer a more herby flavor? Throw in some fresh basil or parsley.

Customizable: You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms, or even some grilled chicken or shrimp to make it heartier. The possibilities are endless!

Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s a family favorite that can be served at casual dinners, date nights, or even small gatherings.

Ingredients in White Sauce Spaghetti

Spaghetti
The perfect pasta for this creamy sauce! Its long strands work beautifully with the silky sauce, making each bite an indulgent experience.

Butter
The base of the white sauce. It provides that rich, savory flavor and helps to form the creamy consistency.

All-Purpose Flour
Used to create the roux (the mixture of fat and flour) that thickens the sauce, giving it that creamy texture.

Milk
For the perfect creamy base. Whole milk is ideal for richness, but you can use skim milk or a dairy-free alternative if preferred.

Heavy Cream
This adds an extra layer of richness to the sauce, making it luxuriously creamy. It’s optional, but trust me, it makes a big difference!

Garlic
For that savory kick that’s the perfect complement to the creamy sauce.

Parmesan Cheese
Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that brings the sauce to life and gives it a little extra oomph.

Salt & Pepper
Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.

Fresh Parsley
For a fresh, herby garnish that brightens the dish.

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti

Start by cooking the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted water. Once cooked to al dente perfection, drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for later.

Make the White Sauce

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

Create the Roux

Add the all-purpose flour to the skillet and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes. This helps cook out the raw flour taste and creates the base of your sauce.

Add Milk and Cream

Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking to avoid any lumps. Then add the heavy cream, if using, and continue to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Season the Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce needs to be thinned out, you can add more pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

Serve & Garnish

Serve the white sauce spaghetti hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired. Pair with a side of garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~400-500 calories (depending on portion size and ingredients)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve White Sauce Spaghetti

With Garlic Bread: Serve your creamy pasta with a side of warm, crispy garlic bread. The combination of rich pasta and crunchy bread is a match made in heaven.

Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a perfect contrast to the richness of the white sauce spaghetti. It adds a refreshing balance to the meal.

Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For added protein, top your spaghetti with grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables. It’s a great way to make this dish heartier.

Roasted Vegetables: If you want to add more veggies to your meal, roasted broccoli, mushrooms, or zucchini are perfect accompaniments.

Additional Tips

Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt into the sauce much better than pre-grated, and it adds a more intense, nutty flavor.

Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream with more milk, or use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.

Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce for a spicy kick that complements the creamy flavors.

Make it Gluten-Free: Swap the regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend to make the sauce.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use other types of pasta?
A1: Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as fettuccine, penne, or linguine.

Q2: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A2: Yes! Substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and opt for a dairy-free cheese.

Q3: Can I make the white sauce ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can make the white sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk or pasta water to loosen it up.

Q4: How do I make the sauce thicker?
A4: If the sauce is too thin, you can add a little more flour to the butter to make a thicker roux, or simmer the sauce for longer to reduce and thicken it.

Q5: Can I freeze white sauce spaghetti?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the white sauce and pasta separately. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water to bring back the creaminess.

Q6: How can I make this dish spicier?
A6: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or mix in some freshly ground black pepper for an extra zing.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A7: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring it back to its creamy texture.

Q8: Can I add veggies to this dish?
A8: Absolutely! Spinach, peas, mushrooms, or even broccoli would be fantastic additions to your white sauce spaghetti. Just sauté them and toss them in with the pasta.

Q9: Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
A9: Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that the sauce may be a bit less creamy with low-fat milk, but it will still be delicious.

Q10: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A10: Yes, the white sauce spaghetti can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove, adding a little milk or water to bring back its creamy consistency.

Conclusion

This White Sauce Spaghetti is a total crowd-pleaser with its creamy texture and simple, comforting flavors. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special dinner. With minimal ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be savoring this indulgent pasta dish in no time. So, go ahead and give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!

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