Classic Croque Monsieur

 

Classic Croque Monsieur – The Quintessential French Sandwich

If you’re craving a sandwich that’s indulgent, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, look no further than the Classic Croque Monsieur. A staple of French cafés, this baked or grilled sandwich combines ham, Gruyère cheese, and béchamel sauce to create a rich, golden delight that’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a sophisticated snack.

Why the Croque Monsieur Is a Timeless Favorite

• Cheesy and Crispy: The combination of melted Gruyère and toasted bread creates a perfect balance of gooey and crunchy.

• Savory Ham: Thinly sliced ham adds a salty, savory element that complements the creamy sauce.

• Elegant Simplicity: With a few high-quality ingredients, you can create a gourmet experience at home.

Ingredients

• 8 slices of white or country-style bread

• 4 slices of cooked ham

• 1 ½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ cups milk

• ½ tsp Dijon mustard

• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Béchamel Sauce:
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Add Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Assemble the Sandwich:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on each slice of bread. Layer ham and shredded Gruyère on four slices, then top with the remaining bread slices.

3. Top and Bake:
Spread a generous amount of béchamel sauce over the top of each sandwich and sprinkle with additional Gruyère. Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly.

4. Serve:
Slice and serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a light green salad on the side.

Tips for the Perfect Croque Monsieur

• Cheese Choices: Gruyère is traditional, but Emmental or Comté also work beautifully.

• Bread Matters: Thick, sturdy slices hold up well and absorb the béchamel without becoming soggy.

• Optional Upgrade: Add a fried or poached egg on top to transform it into a Croque Madame.

The Classic Croque Monsieur is a testament to French culinary simplicity done right. Golden, cheesy, and deeply satisfying, it’s a sandwich that turns an ordinary meal into an elegant treat.