Definition & Meaning of "bechamel sauce"

What is "béchamel sauce"?

Béchamel sauce is a creamy and smooth sauce made from butter, flour, and milk, seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes nutmeg. It has a velvety texture and a mild, delicate flavor. Béchamel sauce is one of the five mother sauces in classical French cuisine and serves as the base for many other sauces and dishes. It is commonly used in dishes such as lasagna, macaroni and cheese, gratins, and creamy pasta sauces. Béchamel sauce adds richness and depth to dishes, providing a comforting and satisfying element to meals. Its versatility and simplicity make it a staple in many kitchens and a fundamental building block of countless recipes.