Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

  1. Melt the butter in a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat until fully liquid.
  2. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the melted butter. Whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to create a blonde roux; it should be bubbly and nutty but not brown.
  3. Gradually pour in the milk, roughly 1/2 cup at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition to incorporate the flour and prevent lumps.
  4. Simmer over medium-low heat for 5–7 minutes, whisking frequently, until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  5. Stir in the sea salt, coarse black pepper, and garlic powder. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve immediately.