How to Make Pasta With White Sauce Step by Step
Step-by-step guide to creating perfect creamy white sauce pasta at home every time.
Prepare ingredients
Boil pasta
Make roux
Add milk gradually
Add cheese & seasoning
Combine pasta with sauce
Serve & garnish
-
1 / 7
Pasta with white sauce — often called Alfredo sauce or creamy béchamel pasta — is one of the easiest, most comforting dishes you can make at home. Its rich, velvety texture and simple ingredients make it perfect for quick lunches, family dinners, or last-minute meals.
Even if you’re not an experienced cook, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable. Here’s a complete step-by-step guide to making perfectly creamy pasta with white sauce every single time.
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Good preparation ensures smooth cooking.
What You Need:
250 g of pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk (warm)
½ cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
½ cup grated parmesan or mozzarella
Salt and pepper
Garlic (optional)
Oregano or parsley for garnish
Why This Step Matters:
Having everything ready prevents the sauce from burning or thickening too quickly.
Key Tip:
Warm milk mixes more smoothly with the roux and prevents lumps.
2. Boil the Pasta
Cook the pasta until it reaches perfect texture.
How to Do It:
Add water and a pinch of salt to a large pot
Bring the water to a full boil
Add pasta and stir occasionally
Cook for 8–12 minutes depending on the type
Drain but keep ½ cup of the pasta water for later
Why This Step Matters:
Salt enhances flavor, and pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency.
Key Tip:
Do not overcook; slightly firm “al dente” pasta holds sauce better.
3. Start the Roux (Butter and Flour Base)
This is the foundation of your creamy white sauce.
How to Do It:
Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat
Add the flour
Whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until the mixture becomes slightly golden
Why This Step Matters:
Cooking the flour removes its raw taste and creates a thickening agent.
Key Tip:
Avoid letting the roux turn brown — it should remain pale for white sauce.
4. Add Milk Gradually to Form the Sauce
This is where the creaminess begins.
How to Do It:
Pour warm milk little by little while whisking constantly
Continue whisking until the sauce thickens
Add heavy cream for a richer texture
Why This Step Matters:
Slow mixing prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, silky sauce.
Key Tip:
If the sauce becomes too thick, add pasta water or milk to thin it.
5. Add Cheese and Season the Sauce
Turn the basic sauce into something delicious.
How to Do It:
Add parmesan or mozzarella
Season with salt, pepper, and oregano
Add garlic for extra flavor if desired
Why This Step Matters:
Cheese adds depth, saltiness, and the signature creamy texture of white sauce pasta.
Key Tip:
Taste the sauce as you go — seasoning is personal.
6. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
The moment everything comes together.
How to Do It:
Add cooked pasta into the pan of sauce
Toss gently until each piece is coated evenly
Add a splash of pasta water if needed for smooth mixing
Why This Step Matters:
Coating the pasta in the pan allows the sauce to cling perfectly.
Key Tip:
Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for 1–2 minutes to absorb flavors.
7. Serve and Garnish
Make it look (and taste) restaurant-quality.
How to Do It:
Plate the creamy pasta
Sprinkle chopped parsley or oregano
Add extra cheese on top
Serve immediately
Why This Step Matters:
Fresh herbs and warm pasta elevate the entire dish.
Key Tip:
White sauce thickens quickly — serve while hot for the best texture.
Conclusion
Making pasta with white sauce is incredibly easy once you understand the basic steps: preparing ingredients, boiling pasta, making a roux, adding milk gradually, incorporating cheese, and combining everything to create a smooth, velvety dish.
With a few simple techniques, you can consistently produce restaurant-quality creamy pasta at home. Whether enjoyed as a comforting solo meal or served to family and friends, this classic dish never disappoints.