Croque Monsieur

• 8 slices of bread
• 8 ounces ham, sliced
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 1/4 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. 2 Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. 3 Layer ham and half the cheese between bread slices to form four sandwiches.
4. 4 Place sandwiches in a baking dish, buttered side up.
5. 5 Whisk milk, flour, nutmeg, salt, and pepper in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened.
6. 6 Pour béchamel over sandwiches and top with remaining cheese.
7. 7 Bake until golden and bubbly, about 10-15 minutes.
8. 8 Serve immediately.

Equipment

• Baking dish
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Variations

• Add mushrooms for a forestière twist.
• Use turkey ham for a lighter option.

Substitutions

• Substitute Swiss cheese for Gruyère.
• Use whole wheat bread for a healthier alternative.

Pairings

• Green salad
• Tomato soup

Nutrition

Tips

• Use day-old bread for the best texture.
• For a Croque Madame, crack an egg over each sandwich before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven to maintain crispiness.

Freezing: Does not freeze well due to the bread texture changes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple green salad.
• Pair with a bowl of tomato soup.

FAQ