Mornay sauce is a creamy cheese sauce that is a variation of béchamel, enriched with cheese. It is commonly used in dishes like macaroni and cheese, lasagna, and as a topping for vegetables or fish.
This recipe is simple and requires basic cooking techniques, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
Easy Mornay Sauce Recipe
This Mornay sauce is made with a smooth béchamel base, combined with grated cheese for a rich, velvety texture. The recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish and yields approximately 2 cups of sauce.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1 cup grated Gruyère cheese or a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
Make the Roux: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and lightly golden.
Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
Season the Sauce: Stir in the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
Incorporate Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the grated Gruyère cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Serve: Use the Mornay sauce immediately in your favorite recipes or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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