Croque Monsieur

Ingredients:
  • 8 slices
    White Bread
  • 4 tbsp
    Butter
  • 2 tbsp
    Flour
  • 1 cup
    Milk
  • 1/2 tsp
    Dijon Mustard
  • 1 pinch
    Nutmeg
  • 8 slices
    Ham
  • 1 cup
    Gruyère Cheese (grated)
  • 2 pcs
    Egg
  • 1/4 cup
    Milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
  • 1
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • 2
    In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
  • 3
    Slowly pour in 1 cup of milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  • 4
    Remove the saucepan from heat and add 1/2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
  • 5
    Spread the béchamel sauce on 4 slices of white bread. Top each slice with 2 slices of ham and 1/4 cup of grated Gruyère cheese.
  • 6
    Cover the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
  • 7
    In a small bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 1/4 cup of milk. Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, coating both sides.
  • 8
    Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  • 9
    Transfer the sandwiches to the prepared baking sheet. Spread an additional layer of béchamel sauce on top of each sandwich.
  • 10
    Sprinkle the sandwiches with more grated Gruyère cheese. Place them in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • 11
    Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Croque Monsieur, delectable grilled sandwich takes the ordinary ham and cheese to extraordinary heights. With its creamy béchamel sauce and crispy golden crust, it’s no wonder this dish has become a beloved staple in bistros around the world. Get ready to elevate your brunch game and impress your guests with this irresistible recipe.

The Croque Monsieur is a harmonious blend of simple yet exquisite ingredients. Start with slices of soft white bread, layered with savory ham and a generous portion of nutty Gruyère cheese. The pièce de résistance is the luscious béchamel sauce, made from a velvety combination of butter, flour, milk, and a touch of Dijon mustard. This creamy sauce infuses the sandwich with an unrivaled richness, while a sprinkle of nutmeg adds a subtle hint of warmth.

Creating your own Croque Monsieur is simpler than you might think. Begin by assembling the sandwiches, generously slathering the bread with béchamel sauce and adding the ham and cheese. A quick dip in an egg and milk mixture adds a golden crust when cooked. A few minutes in a skillet to achieve that perfect golden-brown color, then a finishing touch of more béchamel and Gruyère, and it’s off to the oven for a melty, bubbling masterpiece.

The Croque Monsieur isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a brunch showstopper. The combination of flavors and textures will awaken your taste buds and transport you to a Parisian café. Serve it alongside a crisp salad or a steaming bowl of tomato soup for a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or looking to elevate your everyday lunch, the Croque Monsieur is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

While the classic Croque Monsieur is a culinary gem on its own, feel free to get creative with your toppings. Consider adding a fried egg on top for a Croque Madame variation or experiment with different types of cheese or ham to suit your taste. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley for an extra touch of elegance.

Take your taste buds on a journey to the streets of Paris with our delectable Croque Monsieur recipe. From its creamy béchamel sauce to the crispy grilled exterior, this iconic sandwich is a brunch masterpiece. Elevate your dining experience and savor the flavors of France with this irresistible dish that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. Bon appétit!