The Best Béchamel Sauce
User Reviews
4.7
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
3 cups
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Calories
522 kcal
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Course
Condiments
The Best Béchamel Sauce
Description
The Best Béchamel Sauce starts with melting butter in a saucepan and cooking flour until it achieves a light brown hue and nutty aroma, forming the foundation of a roux. Gradually integrating whole milk while whisking constantly ensures the sauce remains lump-free and smoothly thickens. A touch of ground nutmeg adds a warm undertone characteristic of traditional béchamel.
Once the sauce simmers and thickens, shredded provolone is incorporated gradually off heat until melted, followed by grated Parmesan for a blend of creamy, melty texture and sharp, savory flavor. Salt and black pepper round out the seasoning to taste. The final sauce is thick yet pourable, with a rich, cheesy undertone balanced by the silky milk base.
Béchamel sauce serves as a foundational element in many dishes, from lasagna to creamy gratins. Its mild cheese addition in this version enhances flavor without overpowering other ingredients.
Notes indicate nutritional values are based on one serving, but no special storage or preparation tips are given.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter unsalted
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups milk whole
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup provolone cheese shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan placed over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and cook, whisking constantly, until the flour turns light brown and emits a nutty aroma.
- Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly. Once all of the milk has been incorporated, whisk in the nutmeg, and allow the mixture to come to a simmer. Once simmering, cook for 2 minutes, whisking constantly.
- Remove from the heat, and add the shredded provolone a handful at a time, stirring until it melts. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Notes
- Nutritional values are calculated per serving of this béchamel sauce.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 3cups
Amount Per Serving
Calories 522 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 522kcal | 26% |
| Carbohydrates | 19g | 6% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Fat | 38g | 58% |
| Saturated Fat | 23g | 115% |
| Cholesterol | 105mg | 35% |
| Sodium | 729mg | 30% |
| Potassium | 349mg | 7% |
| Sugar | 10g | 20% |
| Vitamin A | 1325IU | 27% |
| Calcium | 752mg | 75% |
| Iron | 0.9mg | 5% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.7
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