Creamy White Spaghetti Recipe: A Comforting Classic with a Gourmet Twist

There’s something timeless and soothing about a plate of creamy white spaghetti. Whether you’re gathering with family on a quiet weeknight or hosting an elegant dinner party, this dish effortlessly bridges the gap between casual comfort and culinary sophistication. Creamy, rich, and satisfying, white spaghetti offers a delicious departure from the usual red sauce, making it a must-have in every pasta lover’s repertoire.

The inspiration behind this white spaghetti recipe stems from northern Italian cuisine, where cream-based sauces reign supreme. Drawing from that tradition, this version adds depth and flair with hints of garlic, Parmesan, and optional herbs and proteins. It’s a recipe I first tried during a chilly winter evening in Florence, where the creamy pasta was served with crusty bread and a bold glass of red wine—a meal I’ll never forget. Now, it’s a staple in my kitchen, especially when I want to indulge in something simple yet extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This White Spaghetti Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

• Versatile: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, mushrooms, or spinach to suit your taste.

• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Silky sauce, savory garlic, and the richness of cream and Parmesan make every bite unforgettable.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or impressing dinner guests, this dish is a winner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to bring this creamy white spaghetti to life:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti (or pasta of choice)

• Salt (for boiling water)

For the Creamy White Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups whole milk (warm)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: pinch of ground nutmeg for warmth

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed

• 1 cup sautéed mushrooms

• 1 cup baby spinach, wilted

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a kick)

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.

2. Make the Roux

In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.

Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes. This forms the roux that will thicken your sauce and give it a luxurious texture.

3. Create the Cream Base

Slowly whisk in the warm milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken.

4. Add the Cheese and Seasoning

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and gently toss until well coated. If adding chicken, spinach, or mushrooms, fold them in now and heat through.

6. Garnish and Serve

Transfer the creamy white spaghetti to serving bowls. Top with additional Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

Expert Tips for the Best White Spaghetti

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese will give your sauce a creamy, luscious finish.

• Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: This starchy liquid helps the sauce cling to the pasta and smooths out the texture.

• Balance the Richness: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a handful of wilted greens to brighten the dish.

• Go Vegetarian or Vegan: Use plant-based milk and cream alternatives, and swap Parmesan for a dairy-free version to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Creative Variations

1. White Spaghetti with Garlic Shrimp

Sauté peeled shrimp in butter and garlic, then add to the finished pasta for a seafood twist.

2. Spinach and Mushroom White Spaghetti

Sauté mushrooms and spinach with a touch of thyme and fold into the sauce for an earthy, vegetarian version.

3. Spicy Cajun Chicken White Spaghetti

Season chicken with Cajun spices before cooking and add a pinch of cayenne to the sauce for a spicy Southern-style kick.

4. White Truffle Spaghetti

Add a drizzle of white truffle oil before serving for a decadent, aromatic experience perfect for gourmet lovers.

What to Serve with White Spaghetti

Balance this rich pasta with fresh, crisp, and light sides:

• Garlic Bread or Focaccia: Ideal for soaking up the sauce.

• Simple Green Salad: Dressed with lemon vinaigrette or balsamic for contrast.

• Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini add color and nutrition.

• Crisp White Wine: A chilled Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Storage:

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.

Freezing:

This sauce is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it without the pasta. When reheating, whisk thoroughly and consider blending if the texture separates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, fettuccine, linguine, or penne work just as well. Choose your favorite!

Is white spaghetti the same as Alfredo?

They are similar but not identical. Traditional Alfredo uses butter and Parmesan without cream, whereas this white spaghetti includes milk, cream, and sometimes flour for a thicker, more luxurious texture.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free spaghetti and substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or rice flour.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes. Use oat or almond milk and a plant-based cream and cheese substitute. Coconut cream can also work but will alter the flavor slightly.

Print