The Many Joys of White Sauce

This classic white sauce, also known as béchamel, is a fundamental recipe in many cuisines. It’s rich, creamy, and perfect as a base for countless dishes. Follow these steps to create a flawless white sauce every time.

Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Season with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for added depth of flavor.

Remove from heat and use immediately, or store in the refrigerator for later use.

The magic of a white sauce lies in its ability to transform with a few simple additions. Here are some popular variations:

1. Cheese Sauce

Stir in shredded cheese (cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère) for a quick and luscious cheese sauce. Use it for mac and cheese, nachos, or a dip for pretzels.

2. Herb Sauce

Add fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill for an aromatic boost. Perfect for drizzling over roasted vegetables or chicken.

3. Creamy Garlic Sauce

Sauté minced garlic in the butter before adding the flour. The result? A rich, garlicky sauce ideal for pasta or seafood.

4. Velouté Sauce

Replace milk with chicken or vegetable stock to create velouté, a lighter sauce that’s great for gravies or soups.

5. Mornay Sauce

Add a blend of cheeses and an egg yolk for a French-inspired take that’s perfect for baked pasta or soufflés.

Here are some favorite recipes that highlight the versatility of white sauce:

1. Macaroni and Cheese

Nothing beats the comfort of homemade mac and cheese. Cook pasta, mix it with a cheese-infused white sauce, and bake it with a breadcrumb topping for a golden crust.

2. Lasagna

A classic lasagna becomes extra creamy with layers of white sauce alongside tomato sauce, meat, and pasta sheets. It’s a delicious twist on the traditional recipe.

3. Chicken Pot Pie

White sauce serves as the creamy filling for pot pies, binding the chicken and vegetables together in a flaky crust.

4. Vegetable Gratin

Combine cooked vegetables with white sauce, top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan, and bake until bubbly. It’s a simple yet elegant side dish.

5. Croque Monsieur

This decadent French sandwich features ham, cheese, and béchamel sauce, all broiled to perfection.

6. Soufflés

Mastering a soufflé starts with a good white sauce base. Fold in whipped egg whites for a light, airy dish that impresses every time.

7. Creamy Soups

Use white sauce as a base for soups like creamy mushroom or broccoli cheddar. Just thin it out with stock or additional milk.