Ingredients
- 8 slices of sandwich bread
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 8 slices of quality cooked ham
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparing Béchamel Sauce
- Make the Roux: In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes without letting it brown.
- Add Milk: Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
Assembling the Sandwich
- Prepare Bread: Butter each slice of bread on one side. Flip and spread a thin layer of béchamel on the other side.
- Layer Ingredients: Place a slice of ham and a sprinkle of Gruyère on four slices of bread. Top with the remaining bread, béchamel side up.
- Add Topping: Spread the remaining béchamel over the top of the sandwiches and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking
- Broil: Place the sandwiches under a preheated broiler for about 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Conclusion
The Croque Monsieur is not just a sandwich; it’s a luxurious treat that’s perfect for a brunch or a hearty dinner. Serve it with a side salad or crisp pickles to balance out the richness. Enjoy the melty goodness and the sophisticated flavors that make this dish a timeless favorite.