If you’re like me, you believe that every great dish deserves excellent company. Bechamel white sauce, with its creamy texture and subtle flavor, can elevate a variety of foods. Here are some delightful pairings:
Bechamel white sauce is one of the five classic sauces in French cuisine, known as the "mother sauces." Made from a simple mixture of milk, flour, butter, and seasonings, it acts as a base for many dishes. It’s what gives lasagna its creamy texture or can serve as the perfect sauce for a comforting macaroni and cheese.
Here’s what you'll need to whip up your bechamel white sauce:
Before you dive in, gather all your ingredients. This helps streamline the process and keeps cooking chaos to a minimum.
In a medium saucepan, over medium heat, melt the butter. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t brown. A little sizzle is what you're looking for.
Once the butter is melted, add the flour. Stir it vigorously with a wooden spoon or whisk, letting it cook for about 1-2 minutes. This process is called making a roux. You want it to be slightly bubbly, ensuring that you cook out the raw flour taste.
Slowly, pour in the milk while whisking constantly. This gradual addition helps prevent lumps. The mixture will begin to thicken as the milk heats.
Add the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and nutmeg (if using). Keep stirring until everything is well combined and the sauce reaches your desired thickness, usually about 5-7 minutes.
If you’re opting for a cheesy bechamel, stir in the Parmesan until melted and combined.
Before serving, taste your sauce. Depending on your palate, you might want to adjust the seasoning.
The nutritional value can vary, but a standard serving of bechamel sauce contains approximately:
This sauce provides a nice balance of calories and flavor.
Let any leftover bechamel sauce cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. If you notice it gets too thick upon chilling, simply whisk in a little milk to loosen it up when you reheat.
The beauty of bechamel white sauce lies in its versatility and simplicity. It's a great skill to have in your culinary repertoire, giving you a jumpstart to numerous dishes. Whether you’re pouring it over lasagna or whisking it into a creamy soup, this sauce will never let you down. And as you venture into the kitchen to create it, remember the joy of cooking lies also in the little memories we make along the way. So grab your apron, summon your inner chef, and let the deliciousness ensue!
When I first encountered bechamel sauce, I was taken aback by its simplicity. It seemed almost too easy to create such a creamy delight! This white sauce is a fundamental building block in kitchens around the world.
I fondly remember my grandmother teaching me how to make it in her cozy kitchen. The aroma of melted butter and warm milk mixed with flour fills my memory bank with smiles and satisfaction. It’s the kind of recipe that brings comfort.
Servings 1
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
I’m Crystal Ivers, a registered dietitian and the creator of Easy Family Meal. Living in Chicago with my family, I’m passionate about helping busy families create simple, nutritious, and delicious meals. Through my blog, I share easy-to-make recipes and practical tips to make family mealtime enjoyable and stress-free.