Croque Monsieur

Here is a classic Croque Monsieur recipe, a rich and savory French grilled ham and cheese sandwich topped with béchamel sauce. It’s warm, crisp, and deeply satisfying, perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner.

Croque Monsieur Recipe

Servings: 2
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 to 20 minutes
Total Time: About 30 to 35 minutes

Ingredients

For the sandwiches

• 4 slices of white bread (thick cut or brioche preferred)

• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (optional but traditional)

• 4 slices of good-quality ham (preferably Parisian or smoked)

• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and Emmental)

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for toasting)

For the béchamel sauce

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• 3/4 cup whole milk (warm)

• A pinch of salt

• A pinch of ground black pepper

• A pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)

• 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese (extra)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Béchamel Sauce

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

2. Add 1 tablespoon flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.

3. Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking to avoid lumps.

4. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, whisking until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.

5. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

6. Stir in 1/4 cup grated Gruyère until melted and smooth.

7. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Lightly toast the bread slices if you want extra crispness.

2. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on one side of each slice (optional).

3. On two slices of bread, layer:

   • A handful of grated cheese

   • Two slices of ham

   • Another small handful of cheese

4. Top with the remaining slices of bread to make two sandwiches.

Step 3: Cook the Sandwiches

1. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.

2. Add a bit of butter and toast the sandwiches for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese inside is starting to melt.

Step 4: Add Béchamel and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or use the broiler setting.

2. Place the toasted sandwiches on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

3. Spoon béchamel sauce generously over the top of each sandwich.

4. Sprinkle extra grated cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake or Broil

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 5 to 8 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

2. For a golden top, place under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve

• Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute or two.

• Slice in half and serve warm.

Tips

• Use thick, sturdy bread like brioche, pain de mie, or sourdough.

• For Croque Madame, simply add a fried or poached egg on top.

• You can make the béchamel sauce ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

• Gruyère is traditional, but Swiss cheese or sharp white cheddar can be used in a pinch.