The Best Cheese for Bechamel Sauce (+10 Alternatives)

Bechamel sauce is a classic French sauce made with butter, flour, and milk.

It is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, from lasagna to mac and cheese.

One of the key ingredients in Bechamel sauce is cheese, which adds richness and depth of flavor to the sauce.

However, not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to Bechamel sauce.

In this article, we will explore the best cheese for Bechamel sauce and 10 delicious alternatives that you can try in your next recipe.

By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of which cheeses to choose to make the perfect Bechamel sauce every time.

The Best Cheese for Bechamel Sauce

When it comes to choosing the best cheese for Bechamel sauce, there are a few key factors to consider, such as the flavor, texture, and meltability of the cheese.

Here are three of the best cheeses for Bechamel sauce:

Parmigiano-Reggiano

Characteristics:

• A hard, aged cheese that is nutty and savory in flavor
• Grates easily and melts well

Best uses in Bechamel sauce:

• Perfect for adding depth of flavor to the sauce
• Ideal for use in lasagna and other baked pasta dishes

Gruyere

Characteristics:

• A semi-hard cheese that is nutty and sweet in flavor
• Melts well and has a smooth texture

Best uses in Bechamel sauce:

• Adds a creamy richness to the sauce
• Ideal for use in gratins, such as potatoes au gratin

Cheddar

Characteristics:

• A semi-hard cheese that is sharp and tangy in flavor
• Melts easily and has a smooth texture

Best uses in Bechamel sauce:

• Adds a bold flavor to the sauce
• Ideal for use in mac and cheese and other comfort food dishes.

These three cheeses are great options for Bechamel sauce, but they are by no means the only ones. In the next section, we will explore some delicious alternatives to these best cheeses for Bechamel sauce.

Alternatives to the Best Cheese

If you’re looking to switch things up or don’t have access to the best cheeses for Bechamel sauce, don’t worry! There are plenty of alternatives that you can use to achieve a delicious and flavorful sauce. Here are seven of the best alternatives:

Fontina

Characteristics:

• A semi-soft cheese that is buttery and nutty in flavor
• Melts easily and has a smooth texture

Best uses in Bechamel sauce:

• Perfect for adding creaminess to the sauce
• Ideal for use in dishes such as quiches and soufflés

Asiago

Characteristics:

• A semi-hard cheese that is nutty and slightly sweet in flavor
• Grates easily and melts well

Best uses in Bechamel sauce:

• Adds a subtle flavor to the sauce
• Ideal for use in casseroles and baked dishes

Blue cheese

Characteristics:

• A soft cheese that is pungent and tangy in flavor
• Crumbles easily and melts well

Best uses in Bechamel sauce:

• Adds a bold and distinct flavor to the sauce
• Ideal for use in dishes with a spicy or strong flavor profile

Feta

Characteristics:

• A crumbly cheese that is salty and tangy in flavor
• Does not melt well, but can be mixed into the sauce for added flavor

Best uses in Bechamel sauce:

• Adds a tangy and salty flavor to the sauce
• Ideal for use in Greek-inspired dishes

Provolone

Characteristics:

• A semi-hard cheese that is mild and buttery in flavor
• Melts well and has a smooth texture

Best uses in Bechamel sauce:

• Adds a creamy and mild flavor to the sauce
• Ideal for use in dishes such as baked ziti and pizza

Ricotta

Characteristics:

• A soft cheese that is mild and slightly sweet in flavor
• Does not melt well, but can be mixed into the sauce for added creaminess

Best uses in Bechamel sauce:

• Adds a creamy and delicate flavor to the sauce
• Ideal for use in dishes such as lasagna and stuffed shells

Brie

Characteristics:

• A soft cheese that is creamy and mild in flavor
• Melts easily and has a smooth texture

Best uses in Bechamel sauce:

• Adds a luxurious and rich flavor to the sauce
• Ideal for use in dishes such as chicken pot pie and creamy soups.

These alternatives to the best cheese for Bechamel sauce are just as delicious and can add their own unique flavor to your sauce. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination!

Tips for Making Bechamel Sauce with Cheese

Making Bechamel sauce with cheese can be tricky, as the cheese can sometimes clump or make the sauce too thick. Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Bechamel sauce with cheese every time:

Choosing the right cheese:

• Consider the flavor and texture of the cheese when choosing which one to use
• Grate the cheese finely to help it melt evenly into the sauce

Grating the cheese:

• Use a fine grater to grate the cheese
• Grate the cheese just before adding it to the sauce to prevent clumping

Adding the cheese to the sauce:

• Add the cheese slowly, in small amounts
• Stir constantly to help the cheese melt evenly

Avoiding clumps:

• Do not add the cheese all at once, as this can cause clumping
• Mix a small amount of the hot sauce with the cheese before adding it to the pot

Cooking the sauce to the right consistency:

• Cook the sauce over low heat to prevent burning
• Add more milk if the sauce is too thick, or more cheese if it is too thin

By following these tips, you can make the perfect Bechamel sauce with cheese every time. Remember to be patient and take your time when adding the cheese to the sauce, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses and flavor combinations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cheese is an essential ingredient in Bechamel sauce, and choosing the right cheese can make all the difference in the flavor and texture of the sauce. While Parmigiano-Reggiano, Gruyere, and Cheddar are some of the best cheeses for Bechamel sauce, there are many alternatives that you can use to add your own unique twist to the recipe.

When making Bechamel sauce with cheese, it’s important to choose the right cheese, grate it finely, add it slowly to the sauce, and cook the sauce over low heat to prevent burning. By following these tips and experimenting with different cheeses, you can create a delicious and flavorful Bechamel sauce that will elevate any dish.

So, next time you’re making Bechamel sauce, don’t be afraid to try something new and add your favorite cheese to the recipe. Who knows, you might discover a new favorite flavor combination!