Ever thought making homemade bechamel sauce could be quick and easy? A Thermomix makes it possible in just 20 minutes! This recipe is not only simple but also a key ingredient for many dishes. It’s a must-have in your kitchen.
Impress your loved ones with this classic sauce. It has a high rating of 4.51 out of 5 from 122 votes. Follow this guide to make a perfect bechamel sauce every time.
Table of Contents
What is Bechamel Sauce?
Bechamel sauce, also known as a creamy white sauce, is a key sauce in French cooking. It’s one of the five mother sauces of classical French cuisine. It’s simple yet essential in many dishes.
History of Bechamel Sauce
Bechamel sauce comes from France in the 17th century. It was named after chef Louis de Bechameil. Chefs loved it for adding flavor to many recipes.
Over time, it has stayed popular because of its simplicity. It’s used in many classic dishes.
Key Ingredients Explained
Bechamel sauce is made from butter, flour, and milk. These ingredients mix to create a smooth sauce. The sauce starts with a white roux made from flour and fat.
The type of milk used can change based on what you prefer. You can even use non-dairy milk for a different taste.
Uses in Cooking
Bechamel sauce is used in many dishes. It’s great for making cheese sauces, like macaroni and cheese. It also makes lasagna and vegetable dishes taste better.
Its flexibility makes it loved by cooks worldwide. It’s a favorite among both home cooks and professional chefs.

Ingredient | Common Uses |
---|---|
Unsalted Butter | Base for the roux |
Plain Flour | Thickening agent |
Milk | Provides creaminess |
Salt | Enhances flavor |
Nutmeg | Adds warmth |
Why Use Thermomix for Bechamel Sauce?
Making a delicious thermomix bechamel sauce can elevate many dishes. It adds a creamy texture and rich flavor. With a Thermomix, you get benefits that make cooking easier and improve your dishes.
Benefits of Thermomix Cooking
The thermomix makes creating the perfect bechamel sauce easy. It heats and blends ingredients smoothly, without needing constant stirring. This appliance ensures even mixing and heating, making cooking simpler.
Time-Saving Features
Making thermomix bechamel sauce is quick. Preparation takes just two minutes, and cooking seven minutes. This means you’re done in nine minutes. It’s great for busy cooks, as it saves time and lets you do more in the kitchen.
Consistent Results
Thermomix is known for its consistent results. It helps avoid common mistakes like lumps or overcooking. Your sauce will always be perfect, whether for a family meal or a party. It makes creating delicious bechamel sauce easy and reliable.

Feature | Thermomix Bechamel Sauce | Traditional Methods |
---|---|---|
Preparation Time | 2 minutes | 5-10 minutes |
Cooking Time | 7 minutes | 10-15 minutes |
Total Time | 9 minutes | 15-25 minutes |
Risk of Lumps | Minimal | High |
Result Consistency | High | Variable |
Ease of Use | Very Easy | Moderately Difficult |
Essential Ingredients for Thermomix Bechamel Sauce
Choosing the right ingredients is key to making the best bechamel sauce. Each part adds to the taste and texture, making your sauce perfect for many dishes. Knowing what to pick will help you make a creamy sauce that makes your food better.
Milk Selection
Whole milk is usually the best choice for bechamel. It makes the sauce creamy and rich. If you want something dairy-free, almond or coconut milk works well. They’re lighter but keep the flavor good. Use 500 g of milk for the right consistency and taste.
Types of Flour
Plain flour is best for bechamel because it makes the sauce smooth. You only need 40 g of flour to thicken it right. If you can’t have gluten, try gluten-free flour or rice and tapioca flour. They give a similar texture but are safe for special diets.
Butter Choices
Unsalted butter is important for flavoring the sauce. You need 40 g of it for a silky texture. If you can’t have dairy, olive oil is a good substitute. It keeps the sauce rich and flavorful. Using top-quality butter or oil will make your sauce even better.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bechamel Sauce
Learning to make bechamel sauce can boost your cooking skills. This sauce is key to many classic dishes. Follow these steps to get a creamy sauce with your Thermomix.
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by getting all your ingredients ready. You’ll need one tablespoon of flour and butter each. Use 2% milk for a creamy texture. You can also add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard and some minced herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor.
Make sure your flour is right for you. If you need gluten-free, use gluten-free baking flour.
Setting Up Your Thermomix
Put the butter into the Thermomix bowl. Heat it until it bubbles, about two minutes. Then, get ready to add the flour to make a roux. This is key for your sauce’s base.
Cooking the Sauce
Slowly add the flour to the hot fat. Stir for two minutes to make a thick roux. Then, pour in the milk slowly while the Thermomix is on low speed. This should take 1 to 2 minutes of stirring.
If the sauce is too thin, mix a bit of flour with hot sauce and whisk it in. Add Dijon mustard and herbs to taste. The whole process should take 10 to 15 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making homemade béchamel sauce, it’s key to avoid common mistakes. These errors can greatly improve your dish’s quality. Knowing these pitfalls helps both new and experienced cooks get better results.
Overheating the Sauce
One important tip is to watch the heat closely. If the sauce gets too hot, it can burn, ruining the taste. Keeping the heat low ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.
Using Incorrect Ratios
It’s vital to get the right amounts of ingredients. Too much flour makes the sauce thick, while too little makes it watery. Use the recommended amounts for a perfect, velvety béchamel.
Failing to Stir
Another mistake is not stirring enough. Stirring constantly is needed for a smooth sauce. Even with a Thermomix, staying attentive is important for the sauce’s quality.
Variations of Bechamel Sauce
Bechamel sauce is a versatile base for many tasty dishes. It can be turned into a rich cheese sauce. This change boosts the flavor and opens up new cooking possibilities.
Cheese Sauce Options
To make a traditional cheese sauce, just add cheese to your bechamel. You can use Gruyère, cheddar, or Parmesan for a creamy taste. Mornay sauce, a classic, mixes shredded cheese with bechamel. It’s great for macaroni and cheese or cheesy casseroles.
Adding Herbs and Spices
Adding herbs and spices to your bechamel makes it even more exciting. Try fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage for a nice aroma. Nutmeg or a bit of cayenne pepper add warmth and depth. Each addition makes the sauce a unique treat.
Gluten-Free Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend. Mixing rice flour with tapioca flour can mimic traditional bechamel’s texture. This way, everyone can enjoy delicious cheese sauce, no matter their dietary needs.
Storing and Reheating Bechamel Sauce
Storing and reheating bechamel sauce right is key to keeping it fresh. Using airtight containers and gentle heat helps. This way, you can enjoy your creamy sauce at its best, even after it’s cooled down.
Best Storage Containers
Choose airtight containers to keep your bechamel sauce fresh. Glass containers are great because they don’t hold odors or stains. If you prefer plastic, make sure it’s BPA-free. Always let the sauce cool down before putting it in the containers.
How to Reheat Safely
Reheat your bechamel sauce on low heat on the stove. Whisk it gently to keep it smooth. This stops it from getting too thick or separating. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but stir it often in short intervals.
Shelf Life Tips
Homemade bechamel sauce lasts up to four days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months. Use freezer-safe containers and leave space for expansion.
Storage Method | Duration |
---|---|
Refrigerator | Up to 4 days |
Freezer | Up to 3 months |
Serving Suggestions for Bechamel Sauce
Bechamel sauce adds a creamy touch to many dishes. It makes pasta, vegetables, and baked goods taste better. Try these ideas to make your meals more delicious.
Pasta Dishes
Bechamel sauce makes pasta dishes rich and indulgent. It’s great in lasagna, where it adds creaminess between pasta layers. It also makes baked macaroni and cheese even creamier.
For a quick dinner, mix cooked pasta with bechamel, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s a tasty and easy option.
Vegetable Recipes
Bechamel sauce elevates vegetable dishes. It’s perfect with steamed broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus. It turns simple veggies into a comforting side.
It’s also great in creamy vegetable casseroles with potatoes and greens. And, drizzling it over roasted peppers adds a special touch.
Baking Ideas
Bechamel sauce is amazing in baked dishes. It’s a luxurious topping for shepherd’s pie, adding flavor to the meat and veggies. It’s also great in savory crêpes with cheese and ham.
Pouring it over savory tarts adds complexity. The creamy sauce makes these dishes impressive.
Dish Type | Recommended Pairings | Flavor Enhancements |
---|---|---|
Pasta | Lasagna, Mac and Cheese | Nutmeg, Black Pepper |
Vegetables | Steamed Broccoli, Baked Cauliflower | Garlic, Cheese |
Baking | Shepherd’s Pie, Savory Crêpes | Herbs, Parmesan |
Pairing Bechamel Sauce with Other Ingredients
Bechamel sauce is a versatile ingredient for many dishes. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it perfect for pairing with proteins, vegetables, and grains. This can turn your meals into gourmet experiences.
Protein Options
When pairing bechamel with proteins, choose ones that complement its richness. Roasted or grilled chicken works well, creating a satisfying dish. Salmon or halibut, topped with bechamel, also shine. For a plant-based option, baked tofu absorbs the flavors beautifully.
Vegetable Combinations
Vegetables add an aromatic element and nutritional value when paired with bechamel. Spinach, with its tender greens, pairs well with the sauce. Mushrooms add an earthy flavor, while broccoli brings crunch and color.
Grains and Starches
Grains and starchy sides elevate your meals when paired with bechamel. Rice absorbs the creamy sauce, making it a perfect canvas for toppings. Polenta, when smooth, is an excellent base for bechamel, topped with cheese. Crusty bread is great for dipping, letting you enjoy every last drop of sauce.
Ingredient | Pairing Suggestions | Cooking Style |
---|---|---|
Chicken | Grilled, Roasted | Oven-baked |
Fish | Salmon, Halibut | Pan-seared |
Baked Tofu | Marinated, Spiced | Baked, Grilled |
Spinach | Sauteed, Blanched | Added to pasta or casseroles |
Mushrooms | Portobello, Button | Sautéed |
Broccoli | Steamed, Roasted | Baked with cheese |
Rice | White, Brown | Steamed, Boiled |
Polenta | Soft, Grilled | Baked or creamy |
Crusty Bread | Ciabatta, Baguette | Toasted |
Exploring More Thermomix Recipes
The Thermomix opens a world of cooking beyond bechamel sauce. It lets you make many dishes, from tasty sauces to sweet desserts. Learning to use it expands your cooking skills, letting you try new things.
Sauces and Condiments
Making your own sauces with thermomix adds a special touch to meals. Try these:
- Tomato sauce for pasta, full of flavor and nutrients.
- Pesto with fresh basil, nuts, and olive oil.
- Hollandaise sauce, great for brunch and special times.
Soups and Stews
The Thermomix makes it easy to make hearty soups and stews. Here are some ideas:
- Classic vegetable soup, full of vitamins.
- Chicken stew, warm and filling.
- Leek and potato soup, creamy and tasty.
Desserts
The Thermomix is amazing for desserts. Try these:
- Chocolate mousse, quick and loved by all.
- Fruit sorbets, refreshing and sweet.
- Cake batters, always giving great results.
Conclusion
Learning to make bechamel sauce with a Thermomix can really improve your cooking. This simple recipe lets you whip up a tasty sauce fast. It also opens up many new cooking ideas.
You’ve discovered important ingredients, common mistakes, and ways to use bechamel. These tips make cooking easier and more fun. You’ll find it’s quick and enjoyable.
Don’t be afraid to try new flavors and ingredients in your bechamel. You can make it into cheese sauces or add herbs. Using a Thermomix makes cooking easier for everyone.
As you get better at cooking with Thermomix, your meals will get better too. It’s great for sauces and other dishes. The Thermomix makes cooking easy and fun.
Remember, bechamel and other tasty dishes are just a mix away! Start experimenting and see what you can create.
FAQ
How to make béchamel sauce in Thermomix?
To make béchamel sauce in a Thermomix, add butter, flour, and milk to the mixing bowl. Set the temperature to 90°C (194°F) and speed to 3 for about 7-10 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to taste.
How to make béchamel sauce easily?
To make béchamel sauce easily, melt butter in a pan, then stir in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, then season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
What is the formula for making a béchamel sauce?
The basic formula for béchamel sauce is a 1:1 ratio of butter to flour (typically 2 tablespoons of each) and about 1 cup of milk. You can adjust the quantity depending on how much sauce you need. The sauce should be seasoned with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
What is the difference between a white sauce and a béchamel?
Béchamel sauce is a type of white sauce, but it specifically refers to a sauce made from a roux of butter and flour with milk added. The term white sauce can be used more generally for any sauce made with a roux, including béchamel, but béchamel is the most common and classic version.