Enhance Recipes: 5 BEST Bechamel Sauce Substitutes

Bechamel sauce got your recipe in a bind? No sweat!

This creamy wonder can play hard to get, especially when your fridge looks like Old Mother Hubbard’s cupboard.

Lucky for you, the kitchen is a place for creative rebellion, not just following the rules.

We’ve got the lowdown on the five best ringers for that elusive Bechamel, and we’re here to spill the beans—literally and figuratively.

Get ready to whip up something equally delicious, if not more so, without breaking a sweat.

This isn’t just a workaround; it’s your ticket to being the MacGyver of your kitchen!

What is Bechamel Sauce?

Bechamel sauce is one of the classic mother sauces used in French cuisine.

It’s a white sauce made with a roux – cooked butter and flour – that is slowly cooked and thickened with milk.

Beyond its basic ingredients, there are variations that include seasonings, such as pepper, nutmeg, cheese, and other flavorings.

The origins of Bechamel have been traced back to 17th century France wherein it was known as “cream,” “white sauce,” or simply “béchamel”.

In terms of taste and texture, Bechamel is creamy and smooth with a mild flavor; however, it can be further enhanced with herbs and spices.

It’s often included in lasagnas as well as dishes such as creamed soups, mashed potatoes, cheese sauces for pasta or vegetables — even macaroni and cheese.

Essentially, this versatile white sauce delivers tasty creaminess to any recipe it graces.

The 5 Best Substitutes for Bechamel Sauce

If you’re looking for something to replace traditional bechamel sauce, you’ll find plenty of delicious and creative substitutes.

Whether you are vegan or just trying out a new recipe, here are the five best substitutes for the bechamel sauce.

1 – White Wine Sauce

White Wine Sauce is an indispensable condiment in our kitchens that can elevate any ordinary plate to high cuisine status.

It has an undeniably unique flavor and aroma, enhanced by the subtle notes of white wine that make it so special.

The sauce also has a thick consistency as well as a slightly tangy surface layer that adds an enjoyable texture to the dish.

The best part is its flexibility – it pairs great with savory ingredients like garlic, tomato, or mushroom, making it a great addition to any pasta dish or pizza topping.

If you like Bechamel sauce but are feeling for something different, White Wine Sauce makes for an excellent substitute.

Just remember to reduce the amount of liquid used when preparing the recipe if you want to keep the same creamy texture without overpowering the dish.

2 – Mornay Sauce

Mornay sauce is a delicious, creamy classic French sauce made by adding an egg and cheese—such as Gruyère or Parmesan—to the béchamel base.

It has a delicate and tantalizing flavor, with just enough richness to make it irresistible.

Plus, it pairs especially well with seafood and vegetables.

For those looking for a more intense flavor profile, some chefs suggest adding nutmeg or paprika to the base for an exciting kick.

Moreover, the mornay sauce can easily be substituted for béchamel in all your favorite dishes.

Simply increase the amount of cheese used in the recipe and add the egg afterward for a luscious twist on classic Italian cuisine.

3 – Creamy Hollandaise Sauce

Creamy Hollandaise sauce is a delectable addition to many dishes, from breakfast items to lunch.

It has a uniquely silky texture and flavor that can be used as an alternative to Bechamel sauce, making it extremely versatile.

This unique sauce is made by slowly whisking in melted butter into egg yolks while gradually adding lemon juice and salt.

The end result is a luxuriously thick sauce with a hint of sweetness and citrusy tang that pairs magnificently with fish, Eggs, Benedict, or vegetables.

If you’d like to use the creamy Hollandaise as an alternative for Bechamel, simply reduce the lemon juice and replace it with white wine; it particularly tastes delightful on top of steamed vegetables or pasta.

All in all, this delicious sauce is delightfully creamy and sure to elevate any dish.

4 – Dairy-Free Cheese Sauce

If you are trying to cut down on dairy in your diet but still want something flavorful, the dairy-free cheese sauce can be the perfect solution.

With the flavor and texture of classic cheese sauces, this vegan alternative is often made from different kinds of nuts, such as cashews and macadamia nuts.

Generally speaking, it tends to be slightly creamier than a traditional sauce.

Taste-wise, it usually delivers a slightly nutty flavor that pairs quite nicely with fruit on pizza or various vegetables and herbs.

If you’re looking for a way to replace Bechamel sauce, then all you need is some spices or herbs like garlic or rosemary for an added bit of flavor to a creamy forest green dairy-free cheese sauce that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

5 – Cauliflower Cream Sauce

Cauliflower cream sauce is a delicious, flavourful, and creamy sauce that can be used as a substitute for fattening dairy cream sauces such as Bechamel.

It’s made from fresh cauliflower, lightly sautéd onion and garlic, vegetable or chicken stock, and extra-virgin olive oil.

The consistency will depend on how much stock you use; if you prefer it thicker, use less stock, and vice versa.

Taste-wise, it’s savory but not overpowering – a perfect balance.

Texture-wise, it has a velvety smoothness to it that pairs well with any type of pasta or vegetables you are cooking – a great way to get your greens in.

To substitute it for Bechamel sauce, simply reduce the stock while simmering until desired thickness is achieved.

Serve with your favorite dish after adding just a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper for some heat.

Once you taste cauliflower cream sauce, you won’t look back – give it a try today.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bechamel sauce is an iconic, rich, and creamy classic French staple that can be used in a variety of dishes.

If you’re looking for something lighter or dairy-free, though, there are plenty of excellent substitutes out there to choose from.

From velvety smooth cauliflower cream sauce to deliciously nutty dairy-free cheese sauce, there is something to please every palate.

So go ahead and try a few of these delicious alternatives to Bechamel sauce – you will love it.