Imagine yourself sitting in a charming Parisian café, the smell of warm bread, smoky ham, and bubbling cheese filling the air. Among the timeless French dishes, one stands above the rest—the Croque Monsieur. This iconic sandwich is the ultimate balance of crispy bread, creamy béchamel, and savory cheese, making it a favorite around the world.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make an authentic Croque Monsieur, discover what makes it so special, and see how easy it is to bring a little Parisian flavor into your own kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sliced bread (white or whole wheat) | 2 slices |
| Ham (cooked or smoked) | 1–2 slices |
| Gruyère or Emmental cheese (grated) | ½ cup |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| All-purpose flour | 1 tbsp |
| Milk | ½ cup |
| Dijon mustard (optional) | 1 tsp |
Customization Tip: Swap ham for turkey or chicken, or try different cheeses to create your own twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce – Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a golden roux.
- Add Milk – Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and thick. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toast the Bread – Lightly toast the slices and spread Dijon mustard on one side if desired.
- Assemble the Sandwich – Layer ham on the bread, then top with grated cheese.
- Add Béchamel – Place the second slice of bread on top, then spread béchamel sauce over it.
- Sprinkle More Cheese – Add extra grated cheese on top for maximum richness.
- Bake – Bake for 10–15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Expert Tips for Success
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients—good bread, flavorful cheese, and quality ham make all the difference.
- Aim for a silky béchamel sauce—it’s the secret to the creamy texture.
- Try flavor add-ins—herbs like thyme or parsley give a gourmet touch.
- Make it vegetarian—replace ham with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a delicious twist.
Enjoy Your Croque Monsieur
This decadent French sandwich is perfect for lunch, brunch, or even dinner. Pair it with a crisp salad, fresh fruit, or a glass of wine to complete the Parisian experience.
Bon appétit!
