Croque Monsieur (French Ham and Cheese Sandwich)

Introduction

The Croque Monsieur is a classic French sandwich that elevates the humble ham and cheese toastie into a rich and indulgent meal. With layers of buttery bread, savory ham, and gooey melted cheese, topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and baked until golden, this dish is beloved in Parisian cafés and across the world. It’s the perfect combination of comfort food and elegance, making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This recipe will guide you through making an authentic Croque Monsieur at home.

Ingredients

For the Sandwich:

• 8 slices of white sandwich bread (thick-cut preferred)

• 4 slices of cooked ham

• 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or Emmental, or mozzarella as an alternative)

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

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• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ cups warm milk

• ½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

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Instructions

1. Making the Béchamel Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth paste.

3. Gradually add warm milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.

4. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

5. Season with salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Set aside.

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2. Assembling the Sandwiches

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lightly butter one side of each bread slice.

3. On the unbuttered side, layer ham and a generous amount of grated cheese.

4. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side facing out.

3. Adding the Sauce and Baking

1. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet.

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2. Spread a spoonful of béchamel sauce over the top of each sandwich.

3. Sprinkle extra cheese on top for a golden crust.

4. Bake in the oven for 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.

4. Serving

• Serve hot, with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and chopped parsley if desired.

• Pair with a green salad for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

The Croque Monsieur is more than just a sandwich—it’s a symbol of French culinary comfort and sophistication. With its creamy béchamel topping, melty cheese, and hearty ham, it delivers a warm, satisfying bite every time. Whether enjoyed in a café or made at home, this dish proves that even the simplest ingredients can create a truly gourmet experience. Once you try it, it might just become your go-to recipe whenever you crave something indulgent and comforting.