Bechamel Sauce
This velvety, creamy Bechamel Sauce Recipe is a staple in Italian cuisine and is one of the mother sauces! It's used in dishes like lasagna, baked pasta, and vegetable gratins. Just a few simple ingredients add richness and depth to your favorite recipes.
Servings: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk warmed
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon white or black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg optional, but recommended for a classic touch
Instructions
- Warm the milk – In a microwave safe bowl warm the milk to make it room temprature. Keep it warm while preparing the roux.
- Make the roux – In a separate medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once fully melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste. The mixture should be pale and slightly bubbly but not browned.
- Slowly add the milk – Gradually pour in the warm milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Start with a small amount to loosen the roux, then gradually add the rest.
- Cook and thicken – Continue whisking and cook over medium-low heat until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
- Season – Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Use or store – Remove from heat and use immediately, or cover with plastic wrap (touching the surface) to prevent a skin from forming.
Notes
- Warm the Milk First – Using warm milk prevents lumps and helps the sauce thicken evenly.
- Whisk Continuously – Stir constantly while adding milk to ensure a smooth, velvety texture.
- Cook the Roux Just Right – Whisk the butter and flour for 1-2 minutes, but don’t let it brown—this keeps the sauce pale and delicate in flavor.
- Adjust Thickness – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm milk. If too thin, simmer a bit longer until it coats the back of a spoon.
- Prevent Skin Formation – Cover with plastic wrap, touching the surface if storing to keep it silky.
Nutrition
Serving: 10g | Calories: 135kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 271mg | Potassium: 153mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 368IU | Vitamin C: 0.001mg | Calcium: 123mg | Iron: 0.2mg
