Croque Monsieur
A cozy and cheesy French ham & cheese sandwich with layers of salty ham, nutty gruyère, and silky béchamel sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 slices sturdy white sandwich bread or pain de mie Choose bread that will hold the fillings well.
- 6-8 slices quality cooked ham Thinly sliced, from the deli counter.
- 1.5 cups grated aged gruyère cheese For best flavor and melt.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 1 tablespoon for cooking sandwiches, 2 tablespoons for béchamel.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour For making béchamel sauce.
- 1.25 cups whole milk Can substitute with 2% or lactose-free milk.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Optional, for enhancing béchamel flavor.
- a pinch freshly grated nutmeg To flavor béchamel.
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.
Instructions
Make the Béchamel Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add the 1 ¼ cups of whole milk while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir in Dijon mustard if using.
Prepare Sandwiches
- Lay out 8 slices of bread and spread a thin layer of béchamel on one side of each slice.
- On four slices, layer 1-2 slices of ham and sprinkle about ½ cup grated gruyère cheese. Top with remaining bread slices, béchamel side down.
- Spread the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter on the outside of each sandwich.
Cook the Sandwiches
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cheese is melted.
- For a classic finish, add extra béchamel and cheese on top, then broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly.
Notes
You can make the béchamel ahead and refrigerate it. For leftovers, reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain crispness. Suitable for various dietary needs by customizing the ingredients.