How to Make Pasta With White Sauce Step by Step

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.