Croque Monsieur Bites Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

If you’re planning to serve croque monsieur bites, consider pairing them with a refreshing salad. A green salad with light vinaigrette complements the richness of the bites well. You might also opt for a crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. 

Alternatively, a light beer or a sparkling water infused with lemon could be delightful. For sides, add a simple fruit platter – fresh berries or sliced melon provide a sweet contrast.

What Are Croque Monsieur Bites?

Croque monsieur bites are miniature versions of the classic French sandwich. Traditionally, a croque monsieur features perfectly toasted bread layered with ham and Gruyère cheese, often topped with béchamel sauce. 

By transforming this classic into bite-sized portions, you create an irresistible appetizer or snack that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re crispy, cheesy, and savory all in one bite, making them a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Croque Monsieur Bites

These cozy bites bring together the comforting elements of the original dish while being remarkably easy to manage. Think of them as the perfect combination of warm, toasty bread enveloping rich layers of cheese and ham, all while being easy to pop in your mouth.

1. Versatile: Perfect for parties, game days, or a simple family dinner.
2. Quick to Prepare: In under an hour, you can whip up a tray of these bites.
3. Crowd-Pleasing: They’re delightful finger foods; guests can’t resist grabbing a few!
4. Easily Customizable: Swap in different meats, cheeses, or veggies tailored to your taste.
5. Hearty Flavor: The cheeses meld with the ham, creating a comforting and satisfying taste.

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Croque Monsieur Bites

Before you start cooking, gather your ingredients. Here’s what you need:

For Assembly:

• One [14-oz] puff pastry sheet (thawed in the fridge for 4 hours or overnight; gluten-free alternatives work too)
• 3 tablespoons whole-grain Dijon mustard
• 6 slices smoked deli ham, diced finely
• 3 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 egg, beaten

For the Cheese Mix:

• ½ cup finely shredded Gruyère cheese
• ½ cup finely shredded Emmental cheese
• 1 tablespoon finely grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon roasted garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon crushed dried thyme, plus extra for sprinkling at the end
• ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

For the Béchamel:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• ⅔ cup whole milk
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ½ teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme, with extra for garnish
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Pinch of nutmeg

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the thawed puff pastry sheet on a floured surface. Roll it out slightly to ensure it’s an even thickness. This will make cutting out your bites easier.

Step 2: Cut the Dough

Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the pastry into squares, around 2-3 inches in size. You want them bite-sized but not so small that they lose all that delicious filling.

Step 3: Make the Béchamel Sauce

In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, cooking for about a minute until it forms a roux. 

Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the salt, thyme, Dijon mustard, and nutmeg. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Mix the Cheese and Ham

In a bowl, combine the diced ham, Gruyère, Emmental, Parmesan, roasted garlic powder, crushed dried thyme, and black pepper. This cheesy mixture will be heavenly, making your bites rich and satisfying.

Step 5: Assemble the Bites

Lay out half of your pastry squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each square. Then, spoon in the ham and cheese mixture generously. Top with a drizzle of the béchamel sauce. 

Place another pastry square on top of each filled square, pressing down lightly to seal the edges.

Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash

Using a small bowl, beat the egg with a fork. Brush the tops of each pastry square with the egg wash. This will help them achieve that golden color and flaky texture in the oven.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and puffed up. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it very hard to resist until they’re cool enough to handle!

Notes

• Use Quality Cheese: The better the cheese, the richer the flavor. Invest in good-quality cheeses.
• Don’t Skip the Béchamel: It adds moisture and depth.
• Adjust the Fillings: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you prefer or have at hand.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble these a few hours in advance. Just cover and chill before baking.
• Serve Immediately: These bites taste best straight out of the oven.

Storage Tips

To store croque monsieur bites, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days. 

Reheat them in the oven for the best texture. If you want to prepare them for later eating, consider freezing them before baking. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your delicious croque monsieur bites, consider these ideas:

1. Accompany with a Fresh Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the richness of the bites.

2. Serve with Dipping Sauces: A mustard-based sauce or a tangy aioli can elevate the experience.

3. Pair with Wine: A crisp white wine or a light-bodied red complements the flavors splendidly.

4. Thoughtful Platter: Arrange the bites on a platter adorned with olives and pickles for a charming presentation.

5. Individual Portions: Place a few bites in a small basket lined with parchment paper for a delightful touch at each guest’s place setting.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Croque Monsieur Bites?

Croque monsieur bites can be made versatile through substitutions. Here are five options:

1. Veggie Alternatives: Incorporate sliced mushrooms or spinach for a tasty vegetarian option while still achieving that satisfying bite.

2. Different Cheeses: Consider using sharp cheddar or Asiago for a different flavor profile that still melts beautifully.

3. Smoked Turkey or Chicken: Replace the ham with smoked turkey or rotisserie chicken for a lighter spin.

4. Vegan Cheese: If you’re looking for plant-based options, vegan cheese can give you that creamy texture without dairy.

5. Gluten-Free Options: If you need a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread instead of puff pastry or explore gluten-free flour for the béchamel sauce.

Conclusion

Now that you know everything about croque monsieur bites, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start cooking! 

The appeal of these delectable treats lies in their rich flavors and comforting nature. Whether you’re serving them for a casual snack or at a party, they’re guaranteed to impress.

So gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and enjoy the process of making – and indulging in – these irresistible little bites. Trust me; once they hit your table, your guests will be begging you for your secret recipe!

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