Creamy, comforting, and dreamy, White Sauce Spaghetti is the perfect dish for pasta lovers who want something indulgent yet simple to whip up on a busy weeknight. This recipe takes classic spaghetti and envelops every strand in a silky Parmesan-flecked white sauce with hints of garlic and nutmeg. Whether you enjoy it as a vegetarian entrée or elevate it with your favorite add-ins, White Sauce Spaghetti is always a crowd-pleaser that brings pure joy to the dinner table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about how incredibly doable this dish is: every ingredient in White Sauce Spaghetti is a staple, but each plays an essential role in building flavor and creating velvety texture. Fresh, simple items come together for a result that’s anything but ordinary.
- Spaghetti: The foundation! Use your favorite variety – classic or whole wheat both shine here.
- Unsalted butter: Offers rich flavor and is key for that classic silky roux base.
- All-purpose flour: Just a bit thickens the sauce perfectly, making it cling to the pasta.
- Whole milk (warm): Warm milk blends in smoothly and gives the sauce its luscious creaminess.
- Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds nutty depth and saltiness – freshly grated is always best!
- Garlic powder: Brings a subtle savory kick that enhances every bite.
- Black pepper: Freshly ground pepper lifts the sauce and balances the richness.
- Salt (or to taste): Essential to round out flavors; start small and taste as you go.
- Olive oil: A swirl keeps the spaghetti strands from sticking together after draining.
- Nutmeg (optional): Just a pinch adds warm, aromatic notes (if you’re feeling a little fancy).
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): A burst of color and freshness on top to finish the dish with flair.
How to Make White Sauce Spaghetti
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in the spaghetti and cook until just al dente, following the package instructions for perfect timing. Once drained, toss the pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. This not only gives each strand a touch of flavor but also makes mixing with the sauce a breeze later on.
Step 2: Create the Roux
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it foams, then add the flour. Whisk constantly for about a minute—this forms your flavorful roux. It helps set the foundation for a smooth, lump-free sauce and ensures there’s no raw flour taste lingering in the background.
Step 3: Whisk in Warm Milk
Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking vigorously. The gentle heat of the milk keeps the sauce silky, and constant whisking means you’ll get that signature white sauce texture with zero lumps. Let it simmer, stirring often, as it thickens to a luscious consistency in about 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 4: Finish the White Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and just a pinch of nutmeg if you’re in the mood for complex, cozy aromas. Let the sauce simmer for another minute or two, stirring until everything melts into a smooth, creamy blanket. Taste and adjust for seasoning—this is your moment to get it just right.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Add the drained spaghetti directly to the pan of sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is luxuriously coated. Serve immediately while piping hot, because nothing beats the creamy, fresh-from-the-pan experience of White Sauce Spaghetti. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve White Sauce Spaghetti
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a burst of color, but also brings an inviting freshness to each bite. For an extra hit of flavor, shower on a little more Parmesan just before serving or add a pinch of cracked black pepper. If you’re feeling daring, a barely-there dusting of nutmeg brings out the sauce’s depth.
Side Dishes
White Sauce Spaghetti loves company! Pair it with classic garlic bread or a crisp green salad tossed in a sharp vinaigrette for contrast. Roasted vegetables or sautéed spinach add extra nutrition and color to your table, making this creamy pasta feel special but balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, twirl portions of spaghetti into neat nests using tongs and a ladle, then arrange them on each plate. You can also top each serving with sliced grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for crunch. A rustic family-style dish in a large bowl is always a welcome sight, ideal for cozy gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (trust me, they’re just as comforting the next day), allow the White Sauce Spaghetti to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making lunch or dinner a snap to reheat.
Freezing
While this creamy pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooled White Sauce Spaghetti in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Be aware that cream-based sauces may separate slightly after freezing, but a gentle reheat usually brings them back together. For best results, freeze the sauce and cooked pasta in separate containers.
Reheating
To reheat, transfer the desired portion to a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and stir gently until warmed through. The microwave works too, but stirring every 30 seconds helps keep the texture just right. Avoid overheating, as that can make the sauce separate or turn gummy.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta instead of spaghetti?
Absolutely! While spaghetti offers the ultimate twirl, feel free to use fettuccine, linguine, or even penne. The key is to cook your pasta al dente so it pairs beautifully with the creamy white sauce.
How do I make White Sauce Spaghetti gluten-free?
Swap out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free spaghetti and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux. Keep an eye on the thickness, as blends can vary.
What proteins go well with White Sauce Spaghetti?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu make excellent protein add-ins. For a heartier vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms or spinach are fantastic choices that add extra depth and nutrition.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the white sauce a day in advance! Store it in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stovetop, whisking in a splash of milk to smooth it out before tossing with fresh spaghetti.
How do I keep the sauce from getting lumpy?
The secret is to whisk the warm milk into the roux slowly and steadily, and to keep whisking as it cooks. Warming the milk beforehand also helps ensure a beautifully smooth sauce every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s something just so satisfying about a bowl of White Sauce Spaghetti—a true kitchen hug that’s easy to make but guaranteed to impress. Whether you serve it for a quick weeknight meal or dress it up for guests, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your pasta rotation!
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White Sauce Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a comforting bowl of White Sauce Spaghetti, where creamy, cheesy flavors blend with perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying meal. This vegetarian dish is simple to make and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Spaghetti:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
White Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Optional pinch of nutmeg
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil salted water, cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil.
- Make White Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then slowly add warm milk while whisking. Cook until thickened. Stir in Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer.
- Combine: Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce, toss to coat.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or grilled chicken for extra protein and flavor.
- Use plant-based milk and cheese for a dairy-free version.
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