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Croque Monsieur

Croque Monsieur
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This easy Croque Monsieur recipe delivers a classic French grilled sandwich featuring crispy bread, gooey Gruyère cheese, savory ham, and creamy béchamel sauce. Perfect for a quick and indulgent breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it combines gourmet flavors with minimal ingredients and simple preparation steps for a comforting and elegant meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread and Spread

  • 4 slices of sturdy white or sourdough bread
  • Butter for toasting (about 2 tbsp)
  • Optional: Dijon mustard, a light layer on bread slices

Filling

  • 4–6 thin slices of ham
  • 1 ½ cups grated Gruyère cheese, divided

Béchamel Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups milk
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the béchamel sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a smooth paste and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Assemble the sandwich: If using, spread a light layer of Dijon mustard on one side of each bread slice. On one slice, layer ham evenly and then generously grate some Gruyère cheese over it. Spoon a portion of béchamel sauce over the cheese, then place the second bread slice on top, mustard side down, creating a neat sandwich stack.
  3. Cook the sandwich: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt some butter. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook until the bottom is golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Carefully flip and cook the other side until golden and the cheese begins to melt.
  4. Add topping and broil: Transfer the sandwich to a baking sheet. Spread more béchamel sauce on top and sprinkle with the remaining Gruyère cheese. Place under a preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and perfectly browned. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  5. Serve immediately: Let the sandwich rest for 1-2 minutes to allow layers to settle and prevent cheese from spilling out. Slice carefully and enjoy warm with gooey cheese and crispy bread.

Notes

  • Choose thick, sturdy bread to prevent sogginess and hold fillings securely.
  • Do not skimp on Gruyère cheese to maintain the signature creamy, nutty flavor.
  • Freshly made béchamel sauce elevates the sandwich far beyond store-bought alternatives.
  • Keep a close eye on the broiler to avoid burning the cheese topping.
  • Allow the sandwich to rest briefly after cooking for easier slicing and better texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Croque Monsieur, French sandwich, grilled sandwich, béchamel sauce, Gruyère cheese, ham sandwich, comfort food, quick recipe, brunch, classic French

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/croque-monsieur/