When it comes to French cuisine, few dishes are as comforting and indulgent as the Croque Monsieur. A perfect marriage of melted cheese, savory ham, and crisp bread, this gourmet grilled sandwich is the epitome of French elegance with a touch of homely simplicity. First served in French cafés in the early 20th century, this dish quickly became a global favorite, delighting food lovers with its golden, creamy crust and hearty filling. Whether enjoyed as a brunch treat, a quick lunch, or even an evening indulgence, the Croque Monsieur is bound to impress.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 8 slices of sandwich bread
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (divided)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 8 slices of quality cooked ham
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste, being careful not to let it brown.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes until it thickens.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, a pinch of nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches
- Lay out the bread slices on a flat surface. Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on one side of each slice.
- On four slices, layer 2 slices of ham and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, béchamel side down, to form a sandwich.
3. Toast the Sandwiches
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Spread softened butter on the outer sides of each sandwich. Place the sandwiches on the skillet and toast for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula until golden brown and crispy.
4. Add the Final Touches
- Preheat your oven’s broiler. Transfer the toasted sandwiches to a baking sheet.
- Spread a generous layer of béchamel sauce on top of each sandwich. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Place under the broiler for 3–5 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the sandwiches from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with a side salad or fries for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality ham and freshly grated Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses.
- Customize the Filling: Add a slice of tomato or a pinch of herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Croque Monsieur is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
The Classic French Croque Monsieur is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Perfect for both casual dining and special occasions, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to the charming streets of Paris. With its creamy béchamel sauce, gooey melted cheese, and crispy golden crust, it’s no wonder the Croque Monsieur has remained a beloved classic for over a century. Bon appétit!