White Sauce for Pasta

White sauce, also known as Béchamel, is a smooth and creamy sauce made from butter, flour, and milk. It serves as the base for many dishes, including pasta, casseroles, and baked meals. This simple yet flavorful sauce is versatile, easy to make, and can be customized with various seasonings and ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick – This white sauce with milk comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Creamy – The smooth texture and delicate flavor make it an ideal base for pasta, vegetables, or meats.
• Customizable – You can enhance this sauce by adding cheese, garlic, or herbs to create variations like a creamy garlic cheese sauce or a light garlic cream sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Roux

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until smooth and golden (but not browned).

2. Add the Milk

• Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

3. Thicken the Sauce

• Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).

4. Season & Serve

• Add salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
• Stir well and remove from heat.
• Use immediately or store for later use in your favorite white sauce meals.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 2 cups of sauce (enough for 4 servings of pasta)
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Creamy Garlic Sauce With Milk – Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves in the butter before adding the flour for a flavorful garlic-infused sauce.
• Cheese Sauce – Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese after the sauce has thickened for a creamy garlic cheese sauce.
• Chicken White Sauce Recipe – Add cooked, shredded chicken to the sauce for a delicious chicken and white sauce pasta.
• Copycat Domino’s Garlic Sauce – Add extra garlic and a splash of lemon juice to recreate a popular pizza dipping sauce.
• Garlic Yogurt Sauce for Chicken – Combine the white sauce with a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt and minced garlic for a tangy, flavorful dip.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftover white sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – White sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating – Warm the sauce over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to restore its consistency.

FAQs

What is white sauce made of?

White sauce (Béchamel) is made from butter, flour, and milk. Seasonings like salt, pepper, and nutmeg enhance the flavor.

Can I make white sauce without flour?

Yes, you can substitute cornstarch for flour by using 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold milk before adding it to the pan.

How do I prevent lumps in white sauce?

Whisk continuously while adding the milk slowly to avoid lumps. Using warm milk also helps create a smoother sauce.

Can I make this sauce gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch as a thickener.

What dishes can I use this sauce for?

White sauce is great for chicken and white sauce pasta, lasagna, casseroles, vegetables, and even as a pizza base.

Can I use non-dairy milk for this recipe?

Yes, almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk can be used, though the texture may be slightly different.

How can I make this sauce richer?

For a richer taste, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.

Can I add herbs to this sauce?

Yes, adding fresh parsley, thyme, or basil enhances the flavor.

How do I fix a sauce that is too thick?

Whisk in a little extra warm milk until the desired consistency is reached.

Is this sauce the same as Alfredo sauce?

No, Alfredo sauce typically includes heavy cream and cheese, while white sauce is made with milk and thickened with a roux.

Conclusion

This white sauce for pasta is a creamy, smooth, and versatile recipe that can be used in a variety of white sauce meals. Whether you’re making a chicken white sauce recipe, a creamy garlic cheese sauce, or a copycat Domino’s garlic sauce, this easy recipe is the perfect base for your favorite dishes. Try it today and enjoy a delicious homemade sauce in just 10 minutes!