Forktionary

White Sauce Recipe

Master the art of making a creamy, luscious white sauce (béchamel)! This versatile sauce is the foundation for countless dishes, from creamy pasta sauces to decadent gratins. Easily adjust the milk for your desired thickness – more milk for a thinner sauce, less for a thicker one. Learn the secrets to a perfectly smooth, flavorful white sauce in just 12 minutes!

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 12 mins
Calories 104.1 kcal
Protein 4g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
White Sauce 17

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for White Sauce

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How to Make White Sauce

  1. Warm 2 cups of milk in a small saucepan over low heat. Do not boil.
  2. In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) of butter over low heat.
  3. Add 1/4 cup all-purpose flour all at once and cook, stirring constantly with a whisk, for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and smooth (this is called a roux).
  4. Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. Continue whisking vigorously to prevent lumps.
  5. Reduce heat to low and continue whisking until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency (about 2-3 minutes).
  6. Cook for 2-3 minutes more, stirring constantly, until the sauce is rich, creamy, and smooth.
  7. Remove from heat and season generously with salt and freshly ground white pepper to taste. Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor (optional).
  8. Serve immediately over your favorite vegetables or use as a base for other sauces like cheese sauce or mushroom sauce. Keep warm in a double boiler, uncovered, if needed. Covering will thin the sauce.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

2 g

Sugar

0g

Fat

25g

Carbs

1g

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15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Occasion North American 5 Ingredients Or Less Sauces Condiments Etc Eggs Dairy American Easy European Fall Kid Friendly Summer Vegetarian Winter Grains Stove Top Dietary Low Sodium Seasonal Low Carb Inexpensive Free Of Something Low In Something Pasta Rice And Grains Equipment Presentation Served Hot