Classic Croque Monsieur

The Croque Monsieur is a timeless French café favorite. With layers of buttery toasted bread, savory ham, melted cheese, and a rich béchamel sauce, it’s the perfect comfort dish for breakfast, brunch, or a simple but indulgent dinner.

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Ingredients

For the Béchamel Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese

For the Sandwiches

• 8 slices of thick white bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 8 slices deli ham
• 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère (or Swiss cheese)
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (optional)

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Instructions

1. Make the Béchamel Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a smooth paste.
3. Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
4. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
6. Stir in the grated Gruyère until melted and smooth.
7. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the Bread

1. Butter one side of each bread slice lightly.
2. Place the bread, buttered side down, on a baking sheet or work surface.

3. Assemble the Sandwich

1. Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the unbuttered side of each slice.
2. Add a small amount of Dijon mustard on top of the béchamel if using.
3. Place a slice or two of ham on half of the bread slices.
4. Sprinkle a handful of grated Gruyère over the ham.
5. Cover each with a second slice of bread, béchamel side facing in.

4. Cook the Sandwiches

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet, toast each sandwich for 2 to 3 minutes per side until lightly golden.
3. Place the toasted sandwiches on a baking sheet.

5. Add Topping and Bake

1. Spread a generous layer of béchamel sauce over the top of each sandwich.
2. Sprinkle more grated Gruyère on top.
3. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
4. For extra browning, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.

6. Serve

Let the sandwiches rest for 2 minutes, then slice and serve warm.