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Bechamel Sauce Recipe
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.
Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Total Time
15 mins
Servings: 10 servings
Calories: 135 kcal
Course:
Condiments
Cuisine:
Italian
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.
Cup of Yum
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
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
% 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% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.