Cheese has always been my favorite — whether it’s pasta, lasagna, or anything creamy and cheesy. I’ve always had a soft spot for Italian food, especially when it’s drenched in that rich white cheese sauce.
Back when I started making pasta at home, I’d just cut up regular cheese cubes and toss them in. It didn’t really cross my mind that I could actually make a proper cheese sauce. The pasta would always end up feeling a bit dry, and I could never figure out what was missing. I even tried adding mayonnaise once, hoping it would give that creamy feel — but still, it wasn’t the same.
Then one day, by complete chance, I overheard my husband chatting with a friend. He said, “She makes amazing pasta… I’m sure she even makes the cheese sauce too.” That line made me pause. Cheese sauce? Wait… why haven’t I ever tried that?
So I looked it up. Butter, flour, milk, and cheese? That simple? I honestly didn’t believe something so basic could turn into that restaurant-style creamy goodness. But I gave it a try — and I was completely blown away. Since that day, my pasta has never been the same.
🧀 Homemade Cheese Sauce with Italian Flavors
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (preferably warm and full-fat)
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or a mix of mozzarella and processed cheese)
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Salt – to taste
- A pinch of garlic powder or freshly minced garlic (optional)
🥣 Instructions:
1. Melt the Butter
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Make the Roux
Add the flour and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes, until it forms a smooth paste and loses its raw smell.
3. Add Milk Gradually
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens — about 3–5 minutes.
4. Add Cheese & Spices
Turn off the heat and stir in the grated cheese. Once it melts into a smooth sauce, add oregano, chili flakes, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix well. (Add garlic now if using.)
5. Serve Hot
Your creamy, flavorful cheese sauce is ready! Pour it over pasta, lasagna, steamed veggies, or even baked potatoes.
🍽️ Tips & Tricks:
- Use warm milk to avoid lumps in your sauce.
- For a thinner sauce, add a bit more milk. For a thicker sauce, add more cheese.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to bring back its creaminess.
This sauce is now a staple in my kitchen — and once you try it, it’ll be yours too.
Give it a go and let me know how you used it in your meals!