Classic Croque Monsieur

Name: Classic Croque Monsieur
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 sandwiches
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 1/4 cups milk (whole milk preferred); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 8 slices white bread (thick-cut); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened); 200 grams Gruyère cheese (grated, divided); 8 slices cooked ham

30 min 4 sandwiches Medium

All Recipes

A deliciously rich and comforting French classic sandwich made with ham, cheese, and a creamy béchamel sauce.

Prep

15 min

Cook

15 min

Total

30 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

The Croque Monsieur is a quintessential French bistro staple that has charmed the palates of many with its simple yet indulgent ingredients. Originating in French cafés and bars, this sandwich is a delightful marriage of flavours and textures, featuring ham, cheese, and a luscious béchamel sauce. While it may appear to be a humble sandwich, the Croque Monsieur is elevated by the quality of its ingredients and the care taken in its preparation. With a golden, crispy exterior and a warm, gooey interior, it is guaranteed to please anyone who takes a bite.

Instructions

Prepare the béchamel sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.

Pro tip: Ensure the flour is fully incorporated to avoid lumps.

Thicken the béchamel

Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and nutmeg.

Pro tip: Keep the heat moderate to prevent scorching.

Assemble the sandwiches

Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce, then top with a slice of ham and some grated Gruyère cheese. Close the sandwiches with another slice of bread, buttered side up.

Pro tip: Use a generous amount of cheese for extra richness.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cook the sandwiches

Place the sandwiches on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Pro tip: For extra crispiness, finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let the sandwiches cool for a minute before serving. Cut in half and enjoy warm.

Pro tip: Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use thick slices of bread for a heartier sandwich.
Grate your own cheese for a smoother melt.
Butter the bread for a golden, crispy finish.
Serve with a simple green salad to balance the richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Croque Monsieur?

A Croque Monsieur is a classic French sandwich made with ham, cheese, and béchamel sauce, usually grilled or baked.

How do you make a Croque Monsieur?

To make a Croque Monsieur, assemble sandwiches with bread, ham, cheese, and béchamel, then bake until golden and crispy.

Can I make a Croque Monsieur without béchamel?

While béchamel is traditional, you can omit it for a simpler version, but it adds creaminess and flavour to the sandwich.

What cheese is best for Croque Monsieur?

Gruyère cheese is classic for Croque Monsieur due to its excellent melting qualities and nutty flavour.

How long should I bake a Croque Monsieur?

Bake a Croque Monsieur for 5-7 minutes at 400°F (200°C) or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden.

Can I prepare Croque Monsieur ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the sandwiches and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking them.

Serving Suggestions

A Croque Monsieur is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, when the cheese is perfectly melted and the bread still crisp. Pair it with a light, tangy salad to cut through the richness, or enjoy it as a standalone treat. If you wish to prepare the sandwiches in advance, assemble them without cooking and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to serve, simply bake and enjoy. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days and reheated in the oven.

Nutrition per serving

550

Calories

30g

Protein

30g

Fat

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