Versatile Béchamel Sauce for Pasta and More
Creamy béchamel sauce, a versatile base for pasta and lasagna, made with three ingredients in 20 minutes.
This ultra-creamy homemade béchamel sauce is made with just three ingredients: butter, flour, and milk. It is the perfect base for pasta dishes and classic lasagna Bolognese. Ready in 20 minutes, you can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for future use. This recipe yields about 1 quart of sauce, ideal for a multi-layer lasagna.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Servings: 1 quart
Full Ingredient List
- 80 g unsalted butter
- 80 g all purpose flour
- 800 ml whole milk
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Béchamel Sauce
Tools and Equipment
Ingredients
| Quantity | Name | Preparation Notes | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 80 g | Unsalted butter | ||
| 80 g | All purpose flour | ||
| 800 ml | Whole milk | ||
| 1/4 tsp | Fine sea salt | ||
| Pinch | Nutmeg | optional | |
| to taste | Parmesan cheese | optional |
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet or high-sided pot, melt the butter over low heat. (Tips: Do not let the butter brown.)
- Step 2: Sprinkle flour over the melted butter and mix well to create a light-colored roux. Stir frequently for 30 seconds to 1 minute. (Tips: Ensure constant stirring to prevent burning.)
- Step 3: Remove the pan from the heat and add 1/2 cup of milk. Whisk thoroughly to break up any lumps. (Tips: Keep whisking until the mixture looks creamy.)
- Step 4: Slowly add the rest of the milk while whisking continuously. Return the pan to heat and adjust to medium-low. Cook until the sauce thickens to the consistency of runny sour cream, whisking often. (Tips: Do not leave the sauce unattended to avoid it catching on the pan bottom.)
- Step 5: Season with salt to taste and add nutmeg or Parmesan if using. (Tips: Test the sauces thickness by coating the back of a spoon and dragging your finger through it.)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
Additional Information
Notes: The taste of béchamel sauce is mild and sweet. Adjust the seasoning according to your use.
Background: Béchamel sauce originates from France but is also a staple in Italian cuisine, often used in lasagna and other pasta dishes.
Geographic Region: Italian and French cuisine
Seasonality: Suitable year-round
Occasion: Versatile for everyday cooking and special pasta dinners
Recommended Pairings
- Lasagna
- Mac & Cheese
- Casseroles