Basic Bechamel White Sauce

Master the art of French cooking with this silky smooth Basic Béchamel White Sauce, a cornerstone recipe that adds elegance to countless dishes. Made with just a handful of pantry staples—unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, and whole milk—this classic sauce comes together in under 15 minutes. Its velvety texture and subtle seasoning of salt, white pepper, and optional nutmeg make it the ideal base for creamy pastas, gratins, or soufflés. Perfect your roux-making technique and discover how effortlessly this versatile sauce transforms into indulgent cheese sauces or hearty casseroles. Whether you're a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef, this foolproof recipe is an essential addition to your culinary repertoire!

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:15 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 0.25 teaspoons salt
• 0.125 teaspoons ground white pepper (optional)
• 0.125 teaspoons ground nutmeg (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until fully melted but not browned.

Step 2

Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk constantly to form a smooth paste or 'roux'. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 3

Gradually pour in the milk, about 1/4 cup at a time, while whisking continually to prevent lumps from forming. Ensure the milk is fully incorporated before adding more.

Step 4

Once all the milk has been added, continue cooking the sauce over medium heat, whisking consistently, until it thickens to a smooth and creamy consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5

Season the béchamel with salt, white pepper, and nutmeg (if using), adjusting to taste.

Step 6

Remove the sauce from heat and use it immediately, or cover it with plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface to prevent a skin from forming if not using right away.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	533 grams (533.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	558

Total Fat 39.90g	51%
Saturated Fat 23.20g	116%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.50g
Cholesterol 121mg	40%
Sodium 780mg	34%
Total Carbohydrate 34.30g	12%
Dietary Fiber 0.50g	2%
Total Sugars 23.50g
Protein 17.70g	35%

Vitamin D 215IU	1074%
Calcium 610mg	47%
Iron 1mg	4%
Potassium 759mg	16%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 63.3%

Protein: 12.5%

Carbs: 24.2%