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Béchamel Sauce

Béchamel is a creamy white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk, perfect as a base for numerous dishes like lasagna and pasta.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Sauce, Side Dish
Cuisine: French
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Sauce Ingredients
  • 4 tablespoons butter Melted until bubbly
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour Used to make a roux
  • 3 cups whole milk (warm) Warmed to avoid lumps
  • to taste Salt Adjust according to preference
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg Optional for authentic flavor
  • to taste White pepper or black pepper For seasoning

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until bubbly, without browning.
  2. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1–2 minutes to form a smooth paste.
  3. Pour in the warm milk a little at a time, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
  4. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens to your liking, about 5–7 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using, then remove from heat.

Notes

Serve béchamel while warm, over vegetables, in lasagna, or mix with cheese for a cheese sauce. For storage, cool, cover, and refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.