Classic Croque Monsieur Recipe

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Classic Croque Monsieur Recipe

Servings: 2
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

For the sandwich:

• 4 slices of white bread (preferably brioche or pain de mie)
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional but traditional)
• 2 slices of cooked ham
• 1 cup (100g) grated Gruyère or Emmental cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting)

For the béchamel sauce:

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (180 ml) whole milk
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• A pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Gruyère (to melt into sauce)

Instructions:

1. Make the Béchamel:

1. In a small saucepan, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
4. Add salt, pepper, nutmeg, and the 1/4 cup grated Gruyère. Stir until melted. Set aside.

2. Assemble the Sandwiches:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Lightly toast the bread slices if desired.
3. Spread mustard on 2 slices of bread (optional).
4. Layer with ham and about half of the grated cheese.
5. Top with the remaining bread slices.
6. Spread some béchamel on top of each sandwich and sprinkle with the rest of the grated cheese.

3. Cook:

1. In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter and gently toast both sides of the sandwich until golden brown.
2. Transfer sandwiches to the baking sheet.
3. Bake in the oven for 5–7 minutes, until cheese on top is bubbly and golden.

Optional Upgrade: Croque Madame

Add a fried or poached egg on top to make a Croque Madame!

Let me know if you want a quicker version or a vegetarian twist!