Bechamel substitutes
Bechamel substitutes — 3 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use White sauce
Same amount as the bechamel
Similar sauce with different name.
The best substitutes for bechamel are white sauce, cream sauce, or cheese sauce, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of bechamel | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | White saucecooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Cream saucecooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Cheese saucecooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
White sauce
similar taste and texture
Similar sauce with different name.
- Best for
- cooking, pasta, casseroles, French dishes
Different name, similar flavor - same ingredient.
Cream sauce
different taste, similar texture
Similar sauce with different ingredients.
- Best for
- cooking, pasta, casseroles, sauces
Different ingredients, similar texture - more rich.
Cheese sauce
different taste, similar texture
Similar sauce with different ingredients.
- Best for
- cooking, pasta, casseroles, cheese dishes
Different ingredients, similar texture - more cheesy.
Questions
3 questionsCan I use white sauce instead of bechamel?
Yes, white sauce is a good substitute for bechamel, but it has a different name and is the same ingredient.
What's the difference between bechamel and cream sauce?
Bechamel is more traditional and has different ingredients, while cream sauce is more rich and has a similar texture.
Can I use bechamel in baking?
Yes, bechamel can be used in baking, especially in casseroles and savory pastries.
Tips for substituting bechamel
4 tips- Bechamel is one of the five mother sauces in French cooking
- It's commonly used in lasagna, mac and cheese, and casseroles
- Bechamel is made by making a roux and adding milk
- It pairs well with cheese, herbs, and spices