Béchamel Sauce Recipe
Béchamel sauce is one of the five classic French mother sauces, prized for its smooth, creamy texture and rich flavor. Made with butter, flour, milk, and a touch of nutmeg, this easy béchamel sauce recipe is the perfect foundation for lasagna, pasta, casseroles, mac and cheese, and countless baked dishes. With just a handful of pantry ingredients, you can prepare a velvety homemade white sauce in under an hour. Discover more flavorful recipes like Béchamel Sauce Recipe right here.
Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 quart milk
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, or to taste
Directions
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until fully melted but not browned.
- Add the flour and whisk continuously until a smooth roux forms. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden color.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Increase the heat slightly and continue whisking until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Once the sauce reaches a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 10 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flour is fully cooked and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season the béchamel sauce with salt and freshly grated nutmeg, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
- Remove from the heat and use immediately in lasagna, pasta, casseroles, gratins, mac and cheese, or other favorite recipes.
Preparation Details
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 Minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 Minutes |
| Total Time | 40 Minutes |
| Servings | 8 Servings |
| Yield | 1 Quart |
| Calories | Approximately 139 Per Serving |