ricotta bechamel sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best ricotta bechamel sauce recipe

I’m so excited to share this ricotta bechamel sauce recipe with you all. As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are easy to make, delicious, and can be adapted to suit my family’s tastes. This sauce has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m happy to say that it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

My kids love it when I serve it over pasta, and my husband is a big fan of it as a topping for his favorite pizza night. But what really sets this recipe apart is the rich, creamy texture that comes from combining ricotta and bechamel sauces. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking to add some excitement to their usual pasta or pizza night.

Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make and can be whipped up in no time. I like to serve it with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top, which adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. The best part?

This sauce is incredibly versatile – you can use it as a base for lasagna, as a dip for veggies, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. The possibilities are endless! I’ve been making this sauce for years, and I’m still amazed by how well it turns out every time.

My secret ingredient? Fresh parsley! It adds just the right amount of freshness and flavor to balance out the richness of the cheese.

Trust me when I say that this sauce will become your new go-to for any occasion – it’s perfect for special events or just a quick weeknight dinner.

Ricotta Bechamel Sauce

Ricotta Bechamel Sauce

4.5 from 955 votes

A rich and creamy ricotta bechamel sauce perfect for pasta or lasagna. This sauce combines the smoothness of bechamel with the tanginess of ricotta.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Bechamel Sauce

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups whole milk
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp black pepper

For the Ricotta Mixture

1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For Equipment

Saucepan
Whisk
Mixing bowl

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2Once the butter is fully melted and bubbling, add the flour and stir continuously with a whisk for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.
3This is your roux.
4Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
5Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
6This should take about 5-7 minutes.
7The sauce should be smooth and velvety.
8Season with salt and black pepper.
9While the bechamel sauce is cooking, in a separate mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley.
10Mix until smooth and well combined.
Set aside.
11Once the bechamel sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat.
12Gradually add the ricotta mixture to the bechamel sauce, stirring continuously until fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
13Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
14Return the saucepan to low heat and heat the ricotta bechamel sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
15This will ensure that the sauce is heated through and the flavors are well combined.
16The sauce should be hot and bubbling slightly around the edges.
17Serve immediately over your favorite pasta or use in lasagna.

🔧Equipment

Saucepan
Whisk
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 16g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 1000mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smoother sauce, ensure the ricotta is well-drained before use. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.

Watch Video Of How Ricotta Bechamel Sauce Works

I love serving this ricotta bechamel sauce at family gatherings because everyone loves it – kids and adults alike! It’s also incredibly easy to reheat and serve hot or cold, making it perfect for potlucks or picnics.

When reheating leftovers, simply microwave until steaming hot – or try warming it up in the oven with some additional cheese on top (because who doesn’t love more cheese?!) One last tip: don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings – whether you’re using fresh parsley like me or something else entirely, this sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ricotta Bechamel Sauce

Q: What is ricotta bechamel sauce?

This sauce is a combination of two classic Italian sauces: ricotta and bechamel. Ricotta is a light and airy cheese made from whey, while bechamel is a rich and creamy white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk.

Q: What are the benefits of using ricotta instead of traditional cheese?

Ricotta has a lower fat content than traditional cheese, making it an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their calorie intake.

Q: Can I use this sauce as a dip?

Yes! This sauce makes an excellent dip for veggies like carrots and celery sticks.

Q: How do I store leftover ricotta bechamel sauce?

You can store leftover ricotta bechamel sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months.

Q: Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can make this sauce up to 24 hours in advance – simply refrigerate it until ready to use.

Similar Posts