Croque Monsieur

Picture this: you’re in a cozy Parisian café, the smell of melted cheese and toasted bread wafting through the air. Now imagine that café is your kitchen, and you’re about to whip up a dish that feels as indulgent as it tastes.

Meet the Croque Monsieur – the king of French sandwiches and my ultimate comfort food.

Think of it as a grilled cheese with a passport. It’s buttery, cheesy, crispy, and oh-so-satisfying. Originating in early 20th-century France, this dish is as timeless as it is delicious.

And don’t let the fancy name intimidate you; it’s easier to make than it sounds.

Let’s dive into the history and how to bring this classic to your table.

A Brief History of the Croque Monsieur

The Croque Monsieur made its debut in French cafés around 1910. The name comes from the French verb croquer (to crunch) and monsieur (mister), so yes, you’re basically making “Mr. Crunchy.”

Legend has it that this iconic sandwich was born when a French chef ran out of baguettes and improvised with pain de mie (a soft white bread). He layered ham and cheese, toasted it, and the rest is culinary history.

Over time, variations like the Croque Madame (topped with an egg) emerged. Fun fact: this sandwich even has a cameo in Marcel Proust’s In Search of Lost Time.

Talk about a dish with culture!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need for Two Croque Monsieurs:

• 4 slices of white or brioche bread (about ½ inch thick)
• 2-3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (plus extra for the pan)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (divided)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 slices of high-quality ham (such as Parisian or Black Forest ham)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional but recommended)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional but adds depth)

Ingredient Breakdown:

• Bread: Opt for soft white or brioche bread for the ideal balance of structure and fluffiness. Avoid overly dense breads like sourdough.
• Butter: Softened butter is key for spreading evenly. It also gives the sandwich its golden crust.
• Gruyère Cheese: This is the MVP of the Croque Monsieur. Its nutty, melty goodness is unmatched.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds extra umami to the béchamel sauce. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself.
• Ham: Quality matters here. A good slice of ham elevates the sandwich from ordinary to extraordinary.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle tang that cuts through the richness.
• Nutmeg: Just a pinch can transform your béchamel sauce into something heavenly.

How to Make A Croque Monsieur

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures an even melt for the cheese topping. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it smells slightly nutty.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
4. Stir in ½ cup of Gruyère, the Parmesan, and a pinch of nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Lay out your bread slices. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on two of the slices (if using).
2. Place a slice of ham on each mustard-covered piece of bread.
3. Sprinkle a little grated Gruyère over the ham. Top with the remaining slices of bread.

Step 4: Butter the Bread

Generously butter the outsides of each sandwich. This ensures a crispy, golden crust.

Step 5: Toast the Sandwiches

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small pat of butter. Toast the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Add the Béchamel and Cheese

1. Spoon a generous layer of béchamel sauce over the top of each sandwich. Don’t be shy – this is where the magic happens.
2. Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese over the béchamel. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for maximum cheesiness.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the sandwiches in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes. Switch to the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes to get that irresistibly bubbly, golden cheese crust. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the Croque Monsieurs from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve with a simple green salad or a cup of soup for the ultimate café-style meal. Bon appétit!

Tips for Croque Monsieur Success

• Cheese Choices: While Gruyère is the classic choice, you can mix in Emmental or even a mild cheddar in a pinch.
• Bread Swaps: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using challah or a seeded loaf.
• Add an Egg: For a Croque Madame, simply top the sandwich with a sunny-side-up egg before serving.
• Storage: These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes if needed.

Croque Monsieur Recipe

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