The Croque Monsieur is a quintessential French bistro sandwich, renowned for its crispy, golden crust, oozing cheese, and rich béchamel sauce. Dating back to early 20th century Paris, this iconic dish has become a beloved comfort food around the world.
It’s a sophisticated yet simple meal that brings together just a few ingredients in perfect harmony: buttery toasted bread, layers of ham, gooey Gruyère cheese, and a creamy white sauce that elevates it far above your typical grilled cheese. Whether you’re preparing a casual brunch, a special lunch, or a savory snack, this classic Croque Monsieur recipe delivers elegance and satisfaction in every bite. This version honors the traditional French preparation while ensuring it’s easy to make in your home kitchen. Let’s dive into this warm, indulgent masterpiece.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of white sandwich bread (preferably brioche or pain de mie)
- 4 slices of quality cooked ham (such as Parisian or Black Forest)
- 1½ cups (150g) grated Gruyère cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for the béchamel)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups whole milk
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (optional, but recommended)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for toasting the sandwiches)
Instructions
- Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and stir continuously to form a smooth paste (roux). Cook for about 1-2 minutes without browning. - Add Milk:
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue whisking over medium heat until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-6 minutes. - Season the Sauce:
Add a pinch of salt, a grind of black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for depth. Stir in a teaspoon or two of Dijon mustard if desired, for a slight tang. Remove from heat and set aside. - Assemble the Sandwiches:
Lay out 4 slices of bread on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of béchamel sauce on each slice. Add a slice of ham on top, then sprinkle a generous amount of grated Gruyère cheese. Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread. - Add More Sauce and Cheese:
Spread a thin layer of béchamel on the top side of each sandwich. Sprinkle additional Gruyère cheese on top for that irresistible golden crust. - Toast the Sandwiches:
In a large nonstick skillet or on a griddle, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches, béchamel side up, into the skillet (you may need to do this in batches). Cover with a lid or foil and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the bottoms are golden brown. - Broil for a Golden Finish:
Transfer the sandwiches to a baking tray and place them under a hot broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the top layer of cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning. - Serve Hot:
Remove from the oven, let them cool slightly, then slice diagonally. Serve your classic Croque Monsieur hot with a simple green salad, pickles, or even a poached egg on top to turn it into a Croque Madame.