Creamy Vegetable White Sauce Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Pasta

01 - Penne pasta (150g/1.5 cups)
02 - Butter, divided (2 tablespoons)
03 - Red onion, diced (1 small)
04 - Red pepper, sliced (1 medium)
05 - Frozen sweet corn (½ cup)
06 - Small broccoli florets (¾ cup, optional)
07 - Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
08 - Garlic cloves, finely chopped (4-5)

→ For the White Sauce

09 - All-purpose flour (1.5 tablespoons)
10 - Whole milk, room temperature (2 cups)
11 - Heavy cream (¼ cup, optional)
12 - Dried oregano (1 teaspoon)
13 - Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon)
14 - Red chili flakes (½ teaspoon)
15 - Salt to taste (about ½ teaspoon)
16 - Black pepper to taste
17 - Grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese (¼ cup, optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Boil penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
02 - Melt 1 tablespoon butter and cook onion, red pepper, broccoli, and corn for 2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
03 - In the same pan, heat olive oil and remaining butter. Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Whisk in flour for 30-60 seconds. Gradually add milk and cream (if using), whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add seasonings and simmer until thickened.
05 - Add cooked vegetables and pasta to the sauce. Toss until well coated. Add cheese if using, toss until melted. Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Can customize with different vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms
02 - Best served immediately while sauce is creamy
03 - Can skip cream and cheese for a lighter version