Croque Monsieur

The Croque Monsieur—a truly marvelous invention! This is no ordinary ham and cheese. It’s a crispy, golden, butter-toasted sandwich, filled with delicately sliced ham and melting Gruyère cheese, all enveloped in a blanket of rich, velvety béchamel sauce. Then it’s baked—or even broiled—until bubbling and browned to perfection. The top should have a bit of crunch, the inside should be gooey, and the whole thing should be just outrageously satisfying.

It’s the kind of dish that says, “You deserve something delicious and French today.” Serve it with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine, and you’ll feel like you’re lunching in a little Parisian café—no passport required!

Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 25 mins | Serves: 2

Ingredients

For the Sandwich

• 4 slices good-quality white bread, like brioche or pain de mie
  

• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, optional but classic
  

• 2 teaspoons unsalted butter, softened, for toasting
  

• 4 thin slices of ham, Parisian or black forest
  

• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese, or a mix of Gruyère + Emmental

For the Béchamel Sauce

• 1 tablespoons unsalted butter

  
  

• 1 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  

• 1/2 cup whole milk, warm
  

• pinch of salt, pepper, and a small pinch of nutmeg
  

• 2 tablespoons grated Gruyère cheese, or similar

Instructions

Step 1

Make the Béchamel

In a small saucepan, melt 1 tbsp butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in warm milk until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then stir in 2 tbsp grated cheese. Set aside.

Step 2

Assemble the Sandwiches

Lightly butter one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, spread a little Dijon mustard (if using). Layer ham and a generous amount of grated cheese on two slices, then top with the remaining slices, buttered side out.

Step 3

Grill the Sandwiches

In a skillet over medium heat, grill the sandwiches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4

Add the Béchamel + More Cheese

Transfer sandwiches to a baking sheet. Spoon béchamel over the top, sprinkle with remaining cheese, and broil for 2–4 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 5

Serve Hot

Slice in half and serve immediately—ideally with a small green salad.