Croque Monsieur Recipe

The Croque Monsieur is a quintessential French sandwich that combines layers of savory ham and creamy béchamel sauce with a generous topping of melted cheese. This classic bistro snack is perfect for a quick yet indulgent meal, offering a delightful interplay between the crispness of the bread and the luxurious, gooey filling. Ideal for brunch, lunch, or an elegant snack, the Croque Monsieur is sure to transport you to a Parisian café with every bite.

Ingredients

• 8 slices of white bread
• 4 slices of high-quality ham
• 1 cup grated Gruyère or Emmental cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• A pinch of nutmeg
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:

• In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter.
• Add the 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously until the mixture turns a light golden color, about 2 minutes.
• Gradually add the 1 cup of milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
• Season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

• Lay out 8 slices of bread on a clean work surface.
• If using, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on 4 of the slices.
• Place a slice of ham on each of the mustard-spread slices.
• Top each ham slice with a small amount of grated cheese.

Top and Secure:

• Place the remaining slices of bread on top to close the sandwiches.
• Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on top of each sandwich, making sure to cover the entire surface.
• Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the béchamel sauce.

Bake the Sandwiches:

• Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Serve:

• Remove the sandwiches from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two.
• Cut each sandwich in half diagonally and serve warm.

Servings

This recipe makes 4 servings, perfect for sharing or enjoying across multiple meals. Bon appétit!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Tools Needed

• Medium-sized skillet or frying pan
• Whisk
• Small saucepan
• Spatula
• Baking sheet
• Oven or toaster oven
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl

Tips for Preparation

1. Bread Selection: Use high-quality bread like brioche or sourdough for a superior taste.
2. Cheese Grating: Freshly grated cheese melts more evenly than pre-grated cheese.
3. Béchamel Sauce Consistency: Ensure the béchamel sauce is thick but spreadable. It should coat the back of a spoon.
4. Even Layers: To ensure even melting, spread the béchamel sauce and cheese evenly across the bread slices.
5. Broiling: Keep a close watch on the sandwich while broiling to avoid burning the top layer of cheese.
6. Ham Selection: Use a quality, thinly sliced ham for the best flavor and texture.
7. Serving Temperature: Serve immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture.

Skill Level

• Intermediate

Recipe Course and Cuisine

• Course:
  • Main Course
  • Brunch
• Cuisine:
  • French

Serving and Presentation Recommendations

• Serving: Serve Croque Monsieur hot, straight from the oven for the best experience. Pair it with a simple mixed greens salad lightly dressed with vinaigrette to cut the richness, and a glass of chilled white wine like Chardonnay.
• Presentation: For a classic presentation, cut the sandwich diagonally into two halves and arrange them on a plate. Garnish with a sprig of parsley or a few chives for a touch of color.

Storage Conditions

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover Croque Monsieur in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the sandwich in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Avoid using a microwave as it may make the bread soggy.

Health Benefits

• Protein-Rich: Ham and cheese are excellent sources of protein which is essential for muscle and tissue repair.
• Calcium: The cheese in this recipe provides a substantial amount of calcium, beneficial for bone health.
• Vitamins and Minerals: High-quality ham can offer a range of B vitamins and minerals like zinc and iron.
• Energy: This dish provides an energy-dense meal, which can be particularly beneficial for those needing a hearty and fulfilling meal.

Recommendations for Vegans

• Vegan Alternatives: Substitute traditional dairy cheese with vegan cheese options and use a plant-based béchamel sauce. Replace the ham with marinated tofu or tempeh slices to maintain the protein content.
• Bread: Ensure that the bread used is free from any animal products, such as eggs or dairy.

Similar Recipes

• Croque Madame (with a fried egg on top)
• Monte Cristo Sandwich (includes a sweet element and is often fried)
• French Onion Soup Grilled Cheese
• Ham and Cheese Panini
• Classic Grilled Cheese

I hope this detailed guide helps you prepare a delicious and authentic Croque Monsieur at home! Enjoy cooking!