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Savory Croque Monsieur

A richly layered Croque Monsieur with ham, melted Gruyère cheese, and creamy béchamel sauce, perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices robust white sandwich bread or pain de mie
  • 68 thin slices premium cooked ham
  • 1 ½ cups (about 150g) grated aged Gruyère cheese
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 ¼ cups (300ml) whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Create the béchamel sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, whisk in the flour, then gradually add milk, stirring until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  2. Assemble the sandwiches: Spread béchamel on one side of each slice of bread. Layer ham and cheese on four slices, then cap with the remaining slices, béchamel side down.
  3. Butter the outside: Spread remaining butter on the outside of each sandwich.
  4. Cook to perfection: Heat a skillet and cook the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cheese melts.
  5. Broil for extra indulgence: Place on a baking sheet, top with more béchamel and Gruyère, and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly.
  6. Serve with love: Let rest, slice in half, and serve warm.

Notes

Make the béchamel sauce a day ahead for convenience. Customize fillings to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Croque Monsieur, French sandwich, comfort food, brunch, béchamel