The Croque Monsieur is a classic French sandwich, deliciously indulgent and often found in French cafés. It consists of a combination of creamy béchamel sauce, ham, and Gruyère cheese, all grilled to perfection. When topped with a fried egg, it transforms into a Croque Madame.
Ingredients
slice white bread4
unsalted butter2tbsp
all-purpose flour2tbsp
whole milk1cup
salt1pinch
freshly ground black pepper1/4tsp
ground nutmeg1pinch
grated Gruyère cheese1cup
slice cooked ham4
Dijon mustard1tbsp
Optional for Croque Madame
large eggs2
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
373.0kcal (18.65%)
Protein
16.1g (32.1%)
Carbs
12.3g (4.49%)
Sugars
5.5g (10.9%)
Healthy Fat
8.6g
Unhealthy Fat
18.4g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Croque Monsieur
Prepare Béchamel Sauce
- Step 1
Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Step 2
Add flour and cook, whisking constantly, for about 1 minute.
- Step 3
Slowly add milk while continuing to whisk to avoid lumps.
- Step 4
Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer gently until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Step 5
Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Step 6
Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese until melted.
Assemble the Sandwich
- Step 1
Preheat your oven's grill or broiler.
- Step 2
Spread a thin layer of mustard on each slice of bread.
- Step 3
Layer ham and half of the remaining Gruyère cheese on two slices of bread.
- Step 4
Top with the remaining bread slices.
Cook the Sandwich
- Step 1
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Step 2
Brush the outside of each sandwich with melted butter.
- Step 3
Cook sandwiches until the bread is golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Grill with Cheese
- Step 1
Place sandwiches on a baking sheet.
- Step 2
Spoon béchamel sauce over each sandwich and top with remaining Gruyère cheese.
- Step 3
Grill until cheese is bubbly and golden brown, about 5 minutes.
Optional Croque Madame
- Step 1
In a small nonstick pan, fry the eggs to your liking.
- Step 2
Slide a fried egg on top of each sandwich.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
373.0kcal (18.65%)
Protein
16.1g (32.1%)
Carbs
12.3g (4.49%)
Sugars
5.5g (10.9%)
Healthy Fat
8.6g
Unhealthy Fat
18.4g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
For a crispier Croque Monsieur, allow the sandwiches to rest for a few minutes to let the béchamel set slightly before cutting them.
FAQS
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Gruyère with Emmental or cheddar cheese.
How can I make the sandwich more flavorful?
Try adding a pinch of herbs like thyme or rosemary to the béchamel sauce.
Can I prepare the béchamel sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the béchamel sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
What can I serve with Croque Monsieur?
Serve with a side salad or French fries for a complete meal.
How should I store leftover sandwiches?
Wrap leftover sandwiches in foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a moderate oven before serving.
Loading reviews...
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia