White Pasta Sauce

Ingredients & Substitutions

Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for this sauce because it lets you control the saltiness. If you want a healthier option, you can use olive oil instead.

Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich texture. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie alternative, try half-and-half or a plant-based cream like coconut or cashew cream.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated ones. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) works well too.

Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds amazing flavor. In a pinch, you could use garlic powder, about 1/8 teaspoon per clove, but fresh is always best!

Pasta: I love using fettuccine, but spaghetti or any pasta you like will work just fine. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be great substitutes.

How Do I Create a Silky Smooth Sauce?

Getting the right texture is key to a great white pasta sauce. Here are my tips:

• Start with melting the butter on medium heat. Be careful not to brown it, or the sauce will take on an unwanted flavor.
• Add minced garlic and sauté briefly. Watch it closely; burnt garlic tastes bitter!
• When adding the cream, stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan, keeping it at a gentle simmer to help thicken.
• Mix in the cheese gradually, allowing it to melt before adding more. This will create a smooth and creamy texture.

With these tips, you’ll have a luxurious sauce that clings beautifully to your pasta! Enjoy your meal!

How to Make White Pasta Sauce

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
• 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or linguine recommended)
• Optional: pinch of nutmeg

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 20 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 10 minutes preparing the sauce—all while enjoying a delicious meal that’s quick and so satisfying!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic:

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s bubbly. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute, just until it’s fragrant. Make sure not to let it brown, as that can impart a bitter taste!

3. Make the Cream Sauce:

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking. You want to warm it up without boiling, which will help thicken your sauce.

4. Add the Cheese:

Slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese has fully melted into the cream and the sauce becomes slightly thick. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash of the pasta water to loosen it up.

5. Season the Sauce:

Now, season your sauce with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and that pinch of nutmeg if you’re using it. Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

6. Final Touches:

Add the chopped fresh parsley into your sauce and give it a good stir for that lovely fresh flavor.

7. Combine with Pasta:

Now, toss the cooked pasta into the sauce while it’s still warm. Mix everything thoroughly so the pasta is coated evenly with that creamy goodness.

8. Serve:

Your White Pasta Sauce is ready! Serve it immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Enjoy a delightful meal!

This creamy white pasta sauce is rich and comforting, perfect for a quick and delicious meal! Happy cooking!

Can I Use Half-and-Half Instead of Heavy Cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version of the sauce! Just keep in mind that it may not be as rich or thick as using heavy cream, so you might want to cook it a little longer to reach your desired consistency.

How Do I Store Leftover Sauce?

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water if it thickens too much.

Can I Add Vegetables to This Sauce?

Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli can be delicious additions. Sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream for extra flavor and nutrition.

What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a similar salty, cheesy flavor. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative that still adds a cheesy taste!