Bechamel Sauce Recipe

Name: Bechamel Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups whole milk; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon white or black pepper; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

User Reviews

5.0

3 reviews

Excellent

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Total Time
15 mins
Servings
10 servings
Calories
135 kcal
Course
Condiments
Cuisine
Italian

Bechamel Sauce Recipe

Kristin Morrison

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This velvety, creamy béchamel sauce is a staple in Italian cuisine, especially in dishes like lasagna, baked pasta, and vegetable gratins. It adds richness and depth to your favorite recipes with just a few simple ingredients.

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Ingredients

Servings

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

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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

Tips for the perfect Béchamel:
Warm milk is key – Helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth sauce.
Whisk continuously – This keeps the sauce lump-free and creamy.
Adjust thickness – If too thick, add a splash of warm milk. If too thin, simmer a little longer.
Nutmeg enhances flavor – Traditional in Italian béchamel, but can be omitted if preferred.
This authentic béchamel sauce will elevate your lasagna, pasta al forno, croquettes, or vegetable gratins—simple yet luxurious! Buon appetito!

Nutrition Information

Show Details

Serving 10g Calories 135kcal (7%) Carbohydrates 8g (3%) Protein 4g (8%) Fat 10g (15%) Saturated Fat 6g (30%) Polyunsaturated Fat 0.4g Monounsaturated Fat 2g Trans Fat 0.3g Cholesterol 30mg (10%) Sodium 271mg (11%) Potassium 153mg (4%) Fiber 0.1g (0%) Sugar 5g (10%) Vitamin A 368IU (7%) Vitamin C 0.001mg (0%) Calcium 123mg (12%) Iron 0.2mg (1%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 10servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 135 kcal

% Daily Value*

Serving	10g
Calories	135kcal	7%
Carbohydrates	8g	3%
Protein	4g	8%
Fat	10g	15%
Saturated Fat	6g	30%
Polyunsaturated Fat	0.4g	2%
Monounsaturated Fat	2g	10%
Trans Fat	0.3g	15%
Cholesterol	30mg	10%
Sodium	271mg	11%
Potassium	153mg	3%
Fiber	0.1g	0%
Sugar	5g	10%
Vitamin A	368IU	7%
Vitamin C	0.001mg	0%
Calcium	123mg	12%
Iron	0.2mg	1%