Main Courses > Egg & Cheese Based > Protein-Rich Mains > Croque Monsieur

Classic Croque Monsieur

Indulge in the timeless elegance of a Croque Monsieur, a Parisian cafe staple. This recipe guides you through crafting the perfect balance of creamy béchamel, savory ham, and melted Gruyère cheese, all nestled between slices of toasted bread. Prepare for a symphony of flavors and textures that will transport you to the heart of France.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 8 slices Bread (thick-cut white)
  • 8 slices Cooked Ham (high quality)
  • 1 1/2 cups Gruyère Cheese (shredded)
  • 4 tablespoons Butter (unsalted)
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 1/2 cups Milk (whole)
  • pinch Nutmeg (ground)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon Mustard

Preparing the Béchamel Sauce

Begin by making the béchamel sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assembling the Sandwiches

Lightly spread Dijon mustard on one side of each bread slice. On four of the bread slices, layer two slices of ham each. Generously top the ham with shredded Gruyère cheese. Place the remaining bread slices on top, mustard-side down.

Cooking the Croque Monsieur

Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on top of each sandwich. Sprinkle generously with more shredded Gruyère cheese. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also broil for the last minute or two to get the cheese extra bubbly, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Serving

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing in half. Serve immediately. A side of mixed greens or a simple salad pairs perfectly with the richness of the Croque Monsieur.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Calories: 280-320 kcal
Protein: 15-18g
Fat: 18-22g
Carbohydrates: 15-18g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

This recipe is relatively high in saturated fat and sodium due to the cheese and ham. Consider using lower-fat cheese or ham to reduce these levels. Serving with a side salad can add fiber and essential vitamins.

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FAQ

  • Can I use a different type of cheese?

    While Gruyère is traditional, you can substitute with other cheeses that melt well, such as Emmental or Comté. A blend of cheeses can also add interesting flavor.
  • Can I prepare the Croque Monsieur in advance?

    You can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the béchamel sauce and cheese topping just before baking.
  • What is the difference between a Croque Monsieur and a Croque Madame?

    A Croque Madame is simply a Croque Monsieur topped with a fried egg.