The Croque Monsieur is the ultimate French comfort food, featuring melted Gruyère cheese, savory ham, and a creamy béchamel sauce. This decadent sandwich is a delightful upgrade from the classic grilled cheese, offering a rich, crunchy, and gooey experience in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick yet indulgent snack or a hearty lunch, this Parisian bistro favorite is sure to satisfy.
What is a Croque Monsieur?
Originating in French cafés in the early 20th century, the Croque Monsieur is a grilled ham and cheese sandwich taken to the next level with a golden, crispy crust and a luscious béchamel sauce. The name “Croque” comes from the French verb croquer, meaning “to crunch,” which perfectly describes the sandwich’s crispy exterior.
A slight variation, the Croque Madame, is topped with a fried egg, adding an extra layer of richness.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
To make four delicious Croque Monsieur sandwiches, you will need:
For the Sandwich
- 8 slices of white bread (baguette or toast bread)
- 4 slices of cooked ham
- 150g Gruyère cheese, grated
- 50g butter, melted
For the Béchamel Sauce
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 300ml milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
The béchamel sauce is what makes this sandwich incredibly creamy and flavorful.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes lightly golden.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Add Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper, then mix well. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on each slice of bread.
- On four slices, place a slice of ham and a generous amount of grated Gruyère cheese.
- Top each sandwich with the remaining slices of bread, ensuring the béchamel-coated side faces up.
- Spread another layer of béchamel sauce on top of the sandwiches and sprinkle with extra Gruyère cheese.
3. Bake the Sandwiches
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the sandwiches on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and the bread is crispy.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Croque Monsieur hot, ideally with a side of fresh green salad or crunchy cornichons for a delightful contrast. Enjoy this rich, creamy, and crunchy French classic with a glass of white wine or a warm café au lait for the ultimate Parisian experience. 🥂🍽
Chef’s Tips for the Perfect Croque Monsieur
✅ Extra Crunch: Lightly toast the bread before assembling the sandwich for an even crispier texture.
✅ Add More Flavor: Sprinkle a bit of Parmesan cheese on top for an extra umami boost.
✅ Croque Madame Upgrade: Top the sandwich with a fried egg for the famous Croque Madame version.
✅ Cheese Substitutes: If Gruyère isn’t available, try using Emmental, Swiss, or even sharp cheddar.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: ~450 per serving
This Croque Monsieur is a must-try for anyone who loves cheesy, crunchy, and creamy flavors packed into one bite. With its golden, crispy exterior and gooey, melty filling, this French classic will transport you straight to the charming cafés of Paris! 🇫🇷☕
Bon appétit! 🥪✨
