Classic Bechamel Sauce
Silky, creamy, and delightfully versatile, this Classic Béchamel Sauce is a foundational recipe every home cook should master. Made with just a handful of pantry staples—unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, and milk—this classic French white sauce comes together in just 20 minutes. The nutmeg and white pepper add a subtle, warm depth that enhances its elegant simplicity, making it the perfect base for dishes like creamy pastas, lasagnas, or gratins. Whether you're adding a gourmet touch to your favorite casserole or preparing a luscious cheese sauce, this easy-to-follow béchamel recipe is your ticket to culinary perfection. Plus, it's make-ahead friendly, so you can store it for up to three days!
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Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
Directions
Step 1
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Step 2
Add the flour to the melted butter and stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture forms a smooth paste and starts to bubble. This is called a roux.
Step 3
Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid any lumps.
Step 4
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 5
Season the sauce with salt, nutmeg, and white pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
Step 6
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly before using or storing.
Step 7
Use the Bechamel sauce immediately in your dish or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (578.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 775.6 |
| Total Fat 59.0g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 34.2g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g | |
| Cholesterol 167.9mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1379.1mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 47.1g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 1.1g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 23.9g | |
| Protein 19.8g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 214.7IU | 0% |
| Calcium 628.5mg | 0% |
| Iron 1.5mg | 0% |
| Potassium 813.6mg | 0% |
Source of Calories