Shortcut Bechamel Sauce
Prep Time
4 minsCook Time
4-5 minsFree Time
to make fresh lasagna noodles
This speedy version of a French white sauce eliminates the need for constant stovetop stirring, which is a time-saver when preparing lasagna, mac and cheese, chicken pot pie, and other comforting meals. Prepare a generous batch, freeze it in an Anytime Tray, and have it ready for later use!
All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.
What You’ll Need
What You’ll Need
The Small Dish
This dish’s superpower is evenly heating leftovers and cooking small portions.
The Anyhand Mitts
Ingredients
- 1½ tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 pinch nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (225ml) whole milk
Preparation
- Place the butter in the Anyday, cover with lid (knob lifted), and cook in the microwave until fully melted about 30 seconds.
- Add the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, nutmeg, salt, and milk and mix well.
- Cover with lid (knob lifted) and cook in the microwave for 2-3 minutes. Whisk until smooth.
- Continue cooking 2-3 minutes, or until the bechamel has thickened. Splitting the cooking time will ensure even cooking and prevent the milk from overflowing!
- Allow the sauce to cool and use as desired.
Serving suggestions & tips
- Add shredded cheese for an easy mornay cheese sauce.
- Add fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, or dill and some lemon zest for a fresh and herby twist.
- Use plant-based ingredients for a vegan-friendly sauce.
Recipe notes
- Save Time with Anytime Trays: Allow sauce to cool, for about 10-15 minutes. Portion sauce evenly into the Anytime Trays, cover with a lid, and freeze.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.