Smoked Gouda Béchamel

• FAST
• MAKE-AHEAD
• VEGETARIAN

Ingredients

1. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2. 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3. 1 1/2 cups whole milk
4. 1/4 cup heavy cream
5. 1/4 pound smoked Gouda cheese, coarsely shredded
6. 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
7. Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
8. Salt and freshly ground pepper

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk over moderately high heat for 30 seconds. Add the milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Cook over moderate heat, whisking constantly, until thickened, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the cream, smoked Gouda, paprika and nutmeg and whisk just until the cheese is melted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Use right away or cover directly with plastic wrap and refrigerate.