Bechamel sauce

Bechamel sauce

Sauce

Item Rating: 57/100

1 serving (100 grams) contains 120 calories, 3.0 grams of protein, 8.0 grams of fat, and 10.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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285.7
calories
7.1
protein
23.8
carbohydrates
19.0
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)
Calories
285.7
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 19.0 g 24%
Saturated Fat 11.9 g 59%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 47.6 mg 15%
Sodium 714.3 mg 31%
Total Carbohydrates 23.8 g 8%
Dietary Fiber 0 g 0%
Sugars 4.8 g
protein 7.1 g 14%
Vitamin D 23.8 mcg 119%
Calcium 238.1 mg 18%
Iron 0.5 mg 2%
Potassium 119.0 mg 2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar
⚠️ Contains trans fat
🍞 Low carbs

Source of Calories

32.3%
9.6%
58.0%
Fat: 171 cal (58.0%)
Protein: 28 cal (9.6%)
Carbs: 95 cal (32.3%)

About Bechamel sauce

Bechamel sauce, also known as white sauce, is a classic French culinary staple often used as a base for various dishes like lasagna, gratins, and casseroles. Originating in France during the reign of Louis XIV, it is traditionally made with butter, flour, and milk, cooked gently to form a smooth, creamy sauce. Nutritionally, Bechamel is high in carbohydrates and fat due to its base ingredients, offering small amounts of protein from milk. It is calorie-dense, making it suitable for energy-rich recipes, but it lacks significant vitamins or minerals unless fortified or enhanced with additional components like cheese.

Health Benefits

  • Milk contains calcium, which is essential for bone health and maintaining strong teeth.
  • Butter provides vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function.
  • The inclusion of flour offers minor amounts of dietary fiber and some B-vitamins like thiamine.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains milk, wheat (gluten)
Suitable for: Vegetarian
Not suitable for: Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free

Selection and Storage

Store Bechamel sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be reheated gently over low heat, stirring to maintain its smooth consistency.

Common Questions About Bechamel sauce Nutrition

Is Bechamel Sauce high in protein?

Bechamel sauce is not particularly high in protein as it is mainly made from butter, milk, and flour. A 1/4 cup serving contains approximately 1-2 grams of protein, depending on the recipe, as the main protein content comes from the milk.

Can I eat Bechamel Sauce on a keto diet?

Traditional Bechamel Sauce is not keto-friendly since it is thickened with all-purpose flour, which contains carbohydrates. However, you can modify the recipe using low-carb thickening agents like almond flour or xanthan gum to make it suitable for a keto diet.

Is Bechamel Sauce healthy?

Bechamel Sauce can be part of a balanced diet, but it is high in calories and saturated fat due to the butter and milk. A 1/4 cup serving typically contains around 120 calories and 8-10 grams of fat. Consuming it in moderation is recommended, especially if you are watching your calorie or fat intake.

How much Bechamel Sauce should I use per serving?

The recommended serving size is about 1/4 to 1/2 cup per person, depending on the dish. For instance, 1/2 cup could work well for layering lasagna, while 1/4 cup is sufficient for drizzling over vegetables or pasta.

What is the difference between Bechamel Sauce and Alfredo Sauce?

Bechamel Sauce is a basic white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk, while Alfredo Sauce is cream-based and includes Parmesan cheese and garlic. Bechamel serves as a versatile base for many recipes, while Alfredo is a richer, distinctly flavored sauce typically used for pasta.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.