Creamy Baked White Sauce Pasta: A Classic Italian Recipe
40 minutes
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About Creamy Baked White Sauce Pasta: A Classic Italian Recipe
Indulge in the comforting warmth of our Creamy Baked White Sauce Pasta, a delightful Italian-inspired dish perfect for brunch, lunch, or a cozy weeknight dinner. This recipe elevates classic pasta to new heights with a luscious, cheesy white sauce and a golden-brown baked topping.Imagine perfectly cooked pasta swimming in a velvety sauce, made with a blend of creamy milk, sharp Parmesan, and melty mozzarella. The crunchy breadcrumb topping adds the perfect textural contrast, creating a truly satisfying and unforgettable culinary experience.Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that's both elegant and simple. Get ready to savor every cheesy, creamy bite!
Recipe Time & More
Prep20 minutes
Cook20 minutes
Total40 minutes
Ingredients
Pasta & Sauce
- 200 gm Pasta any shape, or shells, rigatoni, such as penne
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- 1 cup Milk whole milk recommended for creaminess
- 3 tbsp All-Purpose Flour also known as maida
- 1.5 tsp Salt or to taste
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 tbsp Pepper black, freshly ground, preferred
Topping
- 1 cup Breadcrumb panko breadcrumbs recommended
- 1/2 tbsp Oregano Flakes optional
- 1/2 tbsp Pepper Flakes for a touch of heat, optional, red
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil for boiling pasta
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta
- Boil the pasta in salted water with 1 tablespoon of olive oil until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the White Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and creamy. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine and Season
- Stir in the salt, pepper, and mozzarella cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and gently toss to coat evenly.
Assemble and Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top, followed by the Parmesan cheese, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Recipe Notes
Expert Tips for the Perfect White Sauce Pasta
- For extra richness, use whole milk or a combination of milk and cream.
- Don't overcook the pasta; it should be al dente before adding it to the sauce.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk to thin it out.
- For a crispier topping, broil the pasta for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Recipe Nutrition
Calories: 236kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 8gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.4gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 1140mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5g
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This looks delightful! Thanks for the recipe.
Such a delicious dish! Thank you.
This is so inspiring! Can’t wait to cook it.