Croque Monsieur
The Croque Monsieur is a quintessential French bistro sandwich, beloved for its crispy, creamy, and cheesy characteristics. This classic dish first appeared in Parisian cafés and bars as a quick snack. "Croque" means "crunch," and "Monsieur" translates to "Mister," hinting at the sandwich's crisp texture and sophisticated flair. This delectable treat combines simple yet high-quality ingredients, resulting in a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
Servings 4
Calories 426kcal
Ingredients
- 4 slices of Pain de Mie or Brioche
- 4 slices of Jambon de Paris
- 1 cup grated Gruyère or Emmental cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter plus extra for spreading on bread
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dijon mustard optional
Instructions
- Build the Roux — Melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook until pale golden and slightly nutty; this removes the raw flour taste.
- Create the Béchamel — Slowly whisk in milk until the sauce thickens and leaves a clean line on the spoon when you run your finger through it.
- Pre-Toast the Bread — Brown the sandwiches in butter until lightly crisp; the surface should feel firm, not soft.
- Add Sauce and Cheese — Spread béchamel evenly and cover with grated cheese so the top melts uniformly.
- Bake Until Bubbling — Heat until the cheese melts and the edges start to brown.
- Finish Under High Heat — Cook until the top turns golden and slightly blistered; stop before dark spots appear.
- Rest Briefly — Let sit 2 minutes so the sauce sets and doesn’t run out when cut.
Nutrition
Calories: 426kcal