Bechamel sauce

Cookinero 24 Apr 2025

Classic "Béchamel" was created by the royal chef and founder of haute cuisine in Versailles. Once you prepare this sauce at home, you can confidently consider yourself an adherent of haute French cuisine. A step-by-step recipe and only 5 ingredients will help you.

How to cook Bechamel sauce

Step 1

Bechamel sauce

Melt the butter in a saucepan, add the flour and fry over medium heat for 3 minutes or until the flour turns caramel brown.

Step 2

Bechamel sauce

Add nutmeg and salt to the saucepan. Reduce heat to low and, while stirring the butter-flour mixture, pour in hot milk in a thin stream. The result should be a uniform liquid with nutmeg inclusions.

Step 3

Bechamel sauce

Simmer the sauce over low heat for 5-10 minutes or until thickened, whisking constantly. The sauce should be creamy and lump-free.

Bechamel sauce - FAQ About Ingredients, Baking Time and Storage

Yes, you can use plant-based butter or margarine as a 1:1 substitute for dairy butter to create a dairy-free version. Just ensure it has a similar fat content for the best texture.
Homemade béchamel sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Stir well when reheating to restore a smooth consistency.
Yes, replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch (use half the amount if using cornstarch) for a gluten-free alternative. Adjust thickness with more liquid if needed.
Lumps form if the milk is added too quickly or not whisked thoroughly. To fix it, strain the sauce or blend it with an immersion blender until smooth.
Use it as a base for mac and cheese, lasagna, croque monsieur, or creamy vegetable gratins. It also pairs well with fish or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a splash of milk while whisking to refresh the texture.
For a thinner sauce, add warm milk a little at a time. For a thicker sauce, simmer longer to reduce or mix in a bit more roux (butter + flour).

Reviews: 0

0 Overall rating
5
0
4
0
3
0
2
0
1
0

Have you already prepared this recipe? Tell what you think.

Write a review

Will be displayed on the comment.
Your review must be at least 50 characters.
Categories Menu Recipes
Top