Description
A creamy, healthier twist on the classic béchamel sauce, perfect for various dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-fat milk (1% or 2%)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted and bubbling, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is lightly golden.
- Gradually add the low-fat milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Continue to cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the salt, white pepper, and nutmeg if using.
- Use immediately or cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming if you plan to use later.
Notes
- For a cheesy béchamel, stir in 1/2 cup of grated cheese (like Parmesan or cheddar) after removing from heat.
- To make it herb-infused, add a teaspoon of dried thyme or a tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley while cooking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Light béchamel sauce, creamy sauce, healthier béchamel