Elevate your creamy sauce game with this rich and velvety Smoked Gouda Béchamel recipe, a luxurious twist on the classic French white sauce. This irresistible sauce begins with a silky roux of butter and flour, blended seamlessly with whole milk for a perfectly smooth base. The star ingredient, shredded smoked Gouda cheese, melts into the béchamel, infusing it with a subtly smoky, nutty flavor that takes comfort food to new heights. Enhanced with a touch of white pepper and optional nutmeg for depth, this versatile sauce is perfect for smothering over pasta, drizzling on roasted vegetables, or layering into casseroles. Ready in just 20 minutes, this quick and easy recipe is sure to become your go-to for adding gourmet flair to any dish.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it begins to bubble but does not brown.
Sprinkle the flour into the melted butter and whisk continuously to form a smooth paste. This is called a roux.
Continue cooking the roux for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste. Be careful not to let it brown.
Slowly add the milk to the roux, about 1/4 cup at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition to ensure a smooth and lump-free mixture.
Once all the milk is incorporated, increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking often.
As the mixture simmers, it will thicken to a creamy consistency. This should take about 5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded smoked Gouda a handful at a time, whisking until fully melted and smooth.
Season the béchamel with salt, white pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.
Remove from heat and use immediately, or keep warm over very low heat, stirring occasionally, until ready to serve.
Calories |
1129 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 88.0 g | 113% | |
| Saturated Fat | 54.2 g | 271% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 252 mg | 84% | |
| Sodium | 2172 mg | 94% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 44.3 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.8 g | 3% | |
| Total Sugars | 23.5 g | ||
| Protein | 46.6 g | 93% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.0 mcg | 30% | |
| Calcium | 1420 mg | 109% | |
| Iron | 1.5 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 893 mg | 19% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.