Description
This easy béchamel sauce recipe is a must-have in your kitchen! Rich, creamy, and silky smooth, this classic French white sauce takes just 10 minutes and a handful of ingredients. Use it as a base for lasagna, mac and cheese, gratins, croque monsieur, and more. It’s simple, versatile, and elevates any dish to restaurant-quality perfection!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk (warm)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until smooth and slightly golden.
- Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the warm milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Thicken the Sauce: Continue whisking and cooking for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens into a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Season and Serve: Stir in the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Remove from heat and use immediately or store for later.
Notes
- For a Thicker Sauce: Cook for an extra minute or two.
- For a Thinner Sauce: Add a splash of warm milk.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat, stirring in a little milk if needed.
- Perfect for: Lasagna, casseroles, pasta, vegetables, and creamy soups!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Sauces & Condiments
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg