Pasta with white sauce

Penne with white sauce – a simple and delicious recipe for moments of culinary indulgence

Who doesn’t love pasta? This versatile food has captured the hearts of many over time, becoming a symbol of conviviality and the joy of sharing delightful meals. Today, I propose a recipe for pasta with white sauce, easy to prepare, that will turn any meal into a memorable experience. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, but also for special occasions, thanks to its rich and creamy taste. Let’s get started!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients

- 400 g penne pasta (or any other type of pasta you prefer)
- 2 rolls of processed cheese (about 200 g)
- 8 slices of smoked beef or ham (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 20 ml water
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 50 g grated parmesan (for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient details

- Pasta: Choose high-quality pasta, preferably made from durum wheat, for better texture. Penne is ideal due to its shape that holds the sauce well.
- Processed cheese: This will give the sauce creaminess and a rich taste. You can also opt for cheddar or mozzarella cheese, depending on your preferences.
- Smoked beef: This adds a savory taste and a hint of smokiness. If you want a vegetarian option, you can skip this ingredient or use sautéed mushrooms.
- Garlic: Provides a delicious aroma to the dish. If you are a garlic lover, feel free to add more.
- Parsley: Served fresh, it brings a note of freshness and color to the plate.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes. Taste them to ensure they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the white sauce: In a medium saucepan, add the olive oil and heat it over low heat. Add the processed cheese and stir constantly to melt it evenly. It is essential to keep the heat low to avoid burning the cheese.

3. Add the ingredients: Cut the smoked beef into small cubes and add it to the saucepan. Mince the garlic clove and add it as well. Mix everything well, allowing the ingredients to combine and sauté for about 2-3 minutes.

4. Finish the sauce: Add the 20 ml of water and continue to stir until the sauce begins to simmer gently. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper according to your preference.

5. Combine the pasta with the sauce: Once the sauce is ready, add the drained pasta to the saucepan and mix well to coat evenly with the sauce.

6. Serve: Divide the pasta into plates and sprinkle grated parmesan and finely chopped fresh parsley on top. Drizzle with a splash of olive oil for added flavor!

Practical tips

- Choose quality pasta: High-quality pasta will hold the sauce better and have a more pleasant texture.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the smoked beef with sautéed vegetables (such as zucchini or bell peppers) for a delicious and healthy alternative.
- Add spices: Oregano, basil, or chili can add an interesting flavor to the sauce.
- Serve with a salad: A fresh green salad or a tomato salad with basil will perfectly complement this main dish.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent nutritional choice and pairs very well with this sauce.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Pasta with white sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water to prevent sticking.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade will perfectly complement the dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, an herbal tea will add a refreshing touch.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This recipe for pasta with white sauce has approximately 550 calories per serving. It is a meal rich in carbohydrates, providing the necessary energy for an active day. The cheese adds protein and calcium, while the parsley is a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants.

A personal note

This recipe for penne with white sauce reminds me of the evenings spent with family, when we gathered around the table and shared stories, laughter, and of course, delicious food. Each bite is a memory of love and warmth from a carefully prepared meal. I encourage you to bring this recipe into your life and create your own beautiful memories around the table!

In conclusion, penne with white sauce is a simple, quick, and extremely tasty recipe. Experiment, add your favorite ingredients, and transform this dish into something truly unique! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: a bag of penne 2 rolls of melted cheese 8 slices of tenderloin or smoked ham a tablespoon of oil 20 ml of water a clove of garlic fresh parsley parmesan

 Tags:  cheese pasta