How to Make the Perfect Béchamel Sauce recipe

This silky-smooth béchamel is the classic French white sauce that takes your favorite comfort foods—like lasagna, creamy mac and cheese, and vegetable gratins—to the next level. My foolproof béchamel sauce recipe is ready in 40 minutes and is your ticket to mastering one of the five French mother sauces!

Why You’ll Love This Classic Béchamel Sauce recipe

Learning how to make béchamel sauce recipe at home is a game-changer for every home cook. While it sounds fancy, it’s surprisingly simple—and mastering this creamy white sauce opens up endless culinary possibilities.

After testing this recipe over and over, I’ve learned that béchamel isn’t just about technique—it’s about creating rich, comforting flavor in every bite. Whether you’re making a classic lasagna with béchamel sauce, homemade macaroni and cheese, or a creamy vegetable gratin, this versatile base sauce delivers a luscious, velvety finish.

Ingredients for Homemade Béchamel Sauce recipe

To make this traditional béchamel sauce (yields 1 quart), you’ll need:

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 quart (4 cups) whole milk, warmed
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (optional)

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step: How to Make Béchamel Sauce recipe from Scratch

1. Prep Ingredients First

Having everything measured out helps your sauce come together quickly. Gently warming the milk (don’t skip this!) keeps your sauce smooth.

2. Make a Roux

Melt butter over medium heat in a heavy-bottomed pan. Once it’s bubbling but not browning, whisk in the flour. You’re creating the base of your white sauce, known as a roux.

3. Cook the Roux

Whisk constantly for 7 minutes until it turns golden. This step builds flavor and eliminates any raw flour taste.

4. Add Warm Milk Gradually

Increase heat slightly. Add the milk ¼ cup at a time, whisking vigorously between additions. This technique ensures a smooth, lump-free béchamel.

5. Simmer and Thicken

Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat, and continue cooking for 10–20 minutes, stirring often. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.

6. Season and Serve

Finish with salt and nutmeg. Use immediately, or cover with plastic wrap pressed to the surface to avoid a skin.

Easy Variations for This French White Sauce

• Cheesy Béchamel Sauce: Add shredded Gruyère or cheddar to create a classic mornay sauce.
• Garlic Béchamel: Sauté minced garlic in butter before adding flour for extra depth.
• Herb-Infused: Simmer the milk with bay leaf or thyme, then strain before use.
• Extra Rich: Swap 1 cup of milk for heavy cream for a decadent twist.

Best Recipes Using Béchamel Sauce

Not sure how to use béchamel sauce? Try it in these delicious dishes:

• Homemade Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce
• Mac and Cheese with White Sauce
• French Croque Monsieur Sandwich
• Greek Moussaka with Creamy Top Layer
• Scalloped Potatoes and Veggie Casseroles
• Creamed Spinach Side Dish
• White Sauce Pizza Base

🧠 FAQs About Béchamel Sauce recipe

How do I fix a lumpy béchamel sauce?
Use an immersion blender or regular blender to smooth it out, then return to the pot.

Can I make béchamel ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk.

Is béchamel sauce gluten-free?
It can be! Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

What if it’s too thick or too thin?
Add milk if it’s too thick; simmer longer or add more roux if too thin.

Nutrition Info (Per ½ Cup Serving)

• Calories: 139
• Total Fat: 10g
• Carbs: 9g
• Protein: 5g

Final Thoughts: Your Go-To Creamy White Sauce Recipe

Mastering this classic French béchamel sauce is like unlocking a new level of cooking. It’s the starting point for countless comfort foods, and once you’ve made it from scratch, you’ll never go back to store-bought. The texture, the flavor, the versatility—it’s all there.

What will you use your homemade béchamel sauce recipe for? Let me know in the comments below!