7 Delicious vegetarian white sauce pasta recipes you can make at home

India Today

4 days ago

Creamy, comforting, and endlessly versatile, white sauce pasta is a favourite for good reason. Whether you're in the mood for something cheesy, veggie-packed, or spicy, here are seven easy and delicious vegetarian versions you can try at home.1. CLASSIC WHITE SAUCE PASTAA basic version that's smooth, creamy, and always satisfying.Ingredients:
Butter, flour (maida), milk, salt, black pepper, oregano or mixed herbs, and boiled pasta (penne or fusilli work best).advertisementMethod:Melt butter in a pan, add flour, and cook for 1–2 minutes while stirring. Slowly whisk in milk to avoid lumps. Once the sauce thickens, season and add the cooked pasta. Toss and serve warm.2. CHEESY WHITE SAUCE PASTAPerfect for cheese lovers who want extra indulgence.What to add:Grated cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or processed cheese) and a little cream if desired.Method:Once the basic white sauce is ready, stir in the cheese until it melts fully. The result is a rich, gooey pasta that's especially kid-friendly.3. WHITE SAUCE PASTA WITH SAUTED VEGGIESA colorful, nutritious option that adds texture and flavor.Vegetables to include:Bell peppers, mushrooms, broccoli, carrots, sweet corn, and spinach.Tip:Lightly saut the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper before mixing them into the sauce. This keeps the veggies crisp and flavorful while making your pasta a balanced meal.
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4. GARLIC-INFUSED WHITE SAUCE PASTAAromatic and full of flavor with minimal ingredients.Flavor twist:Start by sauting minced garlic in butter before adding the flour. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or Italian seasoning to deepen the flavor.Perfect pairings:Mushrooms or spinach work especially well in this version.5. SPICY WHITE SAUCE PASTAFor those who like their creamy pasta with a bold kick.Add-ins:Chili flakes, ground black pepper, paprika, and even a dash of hot sauce or peri-peri mix.Balancing act:Make sure the heat doesn't overpower the creaminess — add spice gradually, and taste as you go.6. MUSHROOM AND CORN WHITE SAUCE PASTAA simple yet hearty combination with a hint of sweetness.Ingredients:Sliced mushrooms and boiled sweet corn.How to prepare:Saute mushrooms until browned and slightly crispy. Stir them into your white sauce along with corn. It's a great combo of earthy and sweet flavors.
7. BAKED WHITE SAUCE PASTAA crowd-pleasing, oven-finished version that's perfect for weekends or dinner parties.Method:Mix pasta with white sauce and cooked veggies. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with grated cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake at 180C (350F) for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.advertisementBonus tip:You can also add a layer of fresh tomato sauce for contrast before baking, for a baked white-and-red pasta hybrid.FINAL TIPS FOR THE PERFECT PASTAStir the sauce continuously to avoid lumps.Use full-fat milk or add cream for extra richness.Don't overcook your pasta — keep it al dente.Always taste and adjust seasoning — white sauce absorbs flavors.Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a nice finishing touch.