Dairy Farmers of Canada

Classic Bechamel Sauce Recipe with Butter

A good Bechamel recipe is one to hold on to. Be sure to use real butter, and add just a pinch of nutmeg. Follow along with our instructional video.

  • Cooking: 15 min - 20 min
Yields 4 cups
Classic Bechamel Sauce Recipe with Butter
Made from a base of butter and flour, béchamel sauce is practical and can be used for various recipes, such as gratins or other sauce-based dishes. This video demonstrates just how easy it is to make.

Ingredients

  • 5 tbsp (75 mL) butter
  • 4 tbsp (60 mL) flour
  • 4 cups (1 L) milk
  • Salt white pepper (to taste)
  • Pinch of nutmeg
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Preparation

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Whisk continuously until the mixture turns a nice golden colour, approximately 6 minutes or so.

In the meantime, warm milk until it begins to boil. Remove from heat and pour milk into the butter mixture 1 cup (250 ml) at a time. Whisk continuously. Bring to a boil and cook for 10 to 15 minutes or until it thickens. The sauce is ready when it coats the back of a spoon.

Remove from heat. Add salt, white pepper and a pinch of freshly ground nutmeg. Set aside until ready to serve.

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