How to Make a Classic Croque Monsieur at Home

Croque Monsieur is a classic French sandwich that is easy to make and delicious to eat. It is typically served as a lunch or a light dinner, but it can also be enjoyed as a snack or an appetizer. The sandwich consists of toasted bread, ham, and melted cheese, all topped with a creamy bechamel sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be made in just a few steps.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need:

• 8 slices of white bread
• 8 slices of ham
• 200g of grated Gruyere cheese
• 50g of unsalted butter
• 50g of all-purpose flour
• 500ml of milk
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add the flour and whisk until smooth, cooking for 2 minutes.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens, stirring constantly.
5. Add the mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper and stir to combine.
6. Remove the sauce from the heat.
7. Toast the bread slices in a toaster or under the grill until lightly browned.
8. Place 4 slices of bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Spread a generous amount of the bechamel sauce on each slice of bread.
10. Add a slice of ham on top of the sauce on each slice of bread.
11. Add a handful of grated Gruyere cheese on top of the ham slices.
12. Place the remaining 4 slices of bread on top of the cheese, pressing down gently.
13. Spread more bechamel sauce on top of each sandwich.
14. Add another handful of grated Gruyere cheese on top of the sauce.
15. Bake the sandwiches in the oven for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
16. Broil the sandwiches for an additional 2 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown.
17. Remove the sandwiches from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

• Croque Madame: Add a fried egg on top of each sandwich to make a Croque Madame.
• Vegetarian Croque Monsieur: Replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
• Gluten-free Croque Monsieur: Use gluten-free bread instead of white bread.
• Croque Hawaiian: Add a slice of pineapple and some sliced cooked bacon to the sandwich to make a Croque Hawaiian.

Now that you know how to make a classic Croque Monsieur sandwich, you can enjoy this French delicacy in the comfort of your own home. Bon appétit!

FAQ

What is a Croque Monsieur?

Croque Monsieur is a classic French dish made with ham, cheese, and bread. The sandwich is typically grilled or baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

What type of bread should I use for Croque Monsieur?

You should use bread that is sturdy enough to hold the ham and cheese filling. A good option is sourdough bread, but any bread with a thick crust will work.

Can I make Croque Monsieur in advance?

Yes, you can make Croque Monsieur in advance. After assembling the sandwiches, cover and refrigerate until ready to bake or grill. This is a great option if you’re hosting a brunch or dinner party.

What type of cheese is best for Croque Monsieur?

The traditional cheese used in Croque Monsieur is Gruyere. However, you can also use other types of cheese such as Swiss or cheddar. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts well.

Can I make Croque Monsieur without ham?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Croque Monsieur by omitting the ham. You can add more cheese or some sautéed mushrooms to the sandwich.

How do I prevent the cheese from sticking to the pan?

To prevent the cheese from sticking to the pan, you can line the baking sheet with parchment paper or use a non-stick baking pan. You can also lightly grease the pan with butter or oil.

Can I use turkey instead of ham?

Yes, you can use turkey instead of ham in your Croque Monsieur. Turkey is a great option if you’re looking for a lighter version of the classic sandwich.

Can I use a different type of meat besides ham or turkey?

Yes, you can use any type of deli meat that you like in your Croque Monsieur. Some options include roast beef, pastrami, or even bacon.

What can I serve with Croque Monsieur?

Croque Monsieur pairs well with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with some pickles or a side of chips.

Can I make Croque Monsieur without a grill or oven?

Yes, you can make Croque Monsieur without a grill or oven. Simply heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sandwich until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.