Croque Monsieur Casserole Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Spring is in the air, and with it comes the delightful season of gatherings and outdoor dining. Imagine pairing a just-right croque monsieur casserole with a crisp salad or some fresh fruit. Picture it: plates piled high, laughter ringing out, and flavor-packed aromas swirling in the breeze. 

This croque monsieur casserole has that classic French flair, but it’s made for sharing. No fancy plates or rigid dinner party rules here—just good food with good company.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for You

Now, let me take a moment to share why this recipe resonates with me. My journey with food has always been an exciting one, blending flavors, experimenting with textures, and most importantly, creating something that brings people together. 

I adore how easy this casserole is to prepare. It captures the decadence of a traditional croque monsieur but transforms it into a dish that serves a crowd. It feels both comforting and elegant, perfect for a family brunch or a friendly gathering.

I’ve used ingredients in this recipe that remind me of cozy cafes in Paris where the golden crust of toasted bread glistens under melted cheese, all combining to create feelings of warmth and nostalgia. 

The layers of ham and cheese in this casserole are essential, but I’ve also found inspiration to stretch the limits of this French classic. It’s a dish that invites customization while staying true to its roots.

Ready to dive into the nourishing world of the croque monsieur casserole? Here’s what you will need.

Ingredients List

• 6 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 4 ounces ham, shredded into 1″ pieces, divided
• 1 cup rich half-and-half
• 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 large loaf rustic country bread, diced into 1″ cubes
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus additional for greasing the dish
• Sea salt, to taste
• 1/4 cup zesty Dijon mustard
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 6 ounces shredded Gruyère cheese (approximately 2 1/2 cups), divided
• Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

These ingredients not only come together beautifully but also offer flexibility in the kitchen. You can swap out the ham for turkey or even go meatless with some sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

How to Make Croque Monsieur Casserole

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves. Cooking should be exciting, not daunting. So, let’s break this down step by step.

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish with a bit of butter to prevent sticking. Trust me, nobody enjoys a casserole that fights back when you try to serve it!

Step 2: Whisk the Eggs and Milk

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, half-and-half, Dijon mustard, flour, sea salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and smoked paprika. You want this mix to be smooth, with no lumps. Consider it the glue that holds this casserole together.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Next, take your rustic bread cubes and scatter them evenly in the greased dish. Then, layer half of the shredded ham over the bread. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and ham. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This soaking time ensures that every piece of bread absorbs that delicious flavor.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Green Onions

After the waiting game, sprinkle half of the Gruyère cheese and the chopped green onions on top. This creates a heavenly cheesy layer that will melt into gooey perfection as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Top with the remaining ham and Gruyère, then place this beauty in the oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the middle. You’ll want to see a little bubbling around the edges—it’s a sign of deliciousness.

Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving

Patience is a virtue. Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into it. This will help it hold its shape, making for beautiful portions. As tempting as it might be, don’t skip this step!

Recipe Notes

Every ingredient plays a role in the final taste and texture of your dish:

• Eggs: They create the foundation and help bind everything together.
• Ham: Shredded ham adds savory bits of flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.
• Half-and-Half and Milk: These creamy ingredients provide richness. You can substitute with lower-fat options if desired but beware of compromising on creaminess.
• Rustic Country Bread: This bread’s texture absorbs the custard beautifully while maintaining some crunch.
• Gruyère Cheese: Famous for its melting quality, it enhances the dish with rich, nutty flavors.
• Dijon Mustard: This zesty addition cuts through the richness, adding just the right kick.
• Nutmeg: A pinch adds warmth and depth. Don’t skip it!
• Green Onions: These add a fresh touch, balancing the dish.
• Paprika: A sprinkle introduces a subtle smokiness without overpowering the other flavors.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe. Here are some ideas:

1. Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead of ham to create a veggie-packed casserole.
2. Cheese Varieties: Swap out Gruyère with Fontina or Emmental for a different flavor profile.
3. Herbs: Adding thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor. Fresh herbs always elevate the dish.
4. Different Breads: Sourdough or brioche can contribute a nice twist.
5. Add Veggies: Incorporate diced tomatoes or sautéed bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Conclusion

Creating this croque monsieur casserole has been a delightful journey of taste and nostalgia. It’s not just about gathering the ingredients, but about the memories made while enjoying a hearty dish with friends and family. 

Each layer of cheese, ham, and bread tells a story. As someone who loves transforming traditional recipes, I can confidently say this casserole stands out for its simplicity and rich flavors.

So, next time you’re craving comfort food, remember that the croque monsieur casserole is waiting for you to bring it to life. Enjoy every bite, share it with loved ones, and let its warmth fill your gatherings. Bon appétit!

Print Recipe

Croque Monsieur Casserole Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

Author: Barbara Brito Cuisine: French Courses: Breakfast & Snacks

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 20 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 427 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Spring is in the air, and with it comes the delightful season of gatherings and outdoor dining. Imagine pairing a just-right croque monsieur casserole with a crisp salad or some fresh fruit. Picture it: plates piled high, laughter ringing out, and flavor-packed aromas swirling in the breeze. 

This croque monsieur casserole has that classic French flair, but it's made for sharing. No fancy plates or rigid dinner party rules here—just good food with good company.

Ingredients

Servings

• 6 large eggs, lightly beaten

• 4 ounces ham, shredded into 1" pieces, divided

• 1 cup rich half-and-half

• ¹⁄₄ cup all-purpose flour (30 g)

• 1 large loaf rustic country bread, diced into 1" cubes

• 2 ¹⁄₂ cups whole milk

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus additional for greasing the dish

• Sea salt, to taste

• ¹⁄₄ cup zesty Dijon mustard

• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

• 6 ounces shredded Gruyère cheese divided (approximately 2 1/2 cups)

• Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg

• ¹⁄₄ cup finely chopped green onions

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish with a bit of butter to prevent sticking. Trust me, nobody enjoys a casserole that fights back when you try to serve it!

Step 2: Whisk the Eggs and Milk

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, half-and-half, Dijon mustard, flour, sea salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and smoked paprika. You want this mix to be smooth, with no lumps. Consider it the glue that holds this casserole together.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Next, take your rustic bread cubes and scatter them evenly in the greased dish. Then, layer half of the shredded ham over the bread. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and ham. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This soaking time ensures that every piece of bread absorbs that delicious flavor.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Green Onions

1. After the waiting game, sprinkle half of the Gruyère cheese and the chopped green onions on top. This creates a heavenly cheesy layer that will melt into gooey perfection as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

1. Top with the remaining ham and Gruyère, then place this beauty in the oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the middle. You’ll want to see a little bubbling around the edges—it’s a sign of deliciousness.

Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving

1. Patience is a virtue. Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into it. This will help it hold its shape, making for beautiful portions. As tempting as it might be, don’t skip this step!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 287kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 17.4g27%

Saturated Fat 9.4g47%

Cholesterol 179mg60%

Sodium 488mg21%

Total Carbohydrate 19g7%

Dietary Fiber 1g4%

Sugars 12g

Protein 14g29%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Eggs: They create the foundation and help bind everything together.
• Ham: Shredded ham adds savory bits of flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.
• Half-and-Half and Milk: These creamy ingredients provide richness. You can substitute with lower-fat options if desired but beware of compromising on creaminess.
• Rustic Country Bread: This bread’s texture absorbs the custard beautifully while maintaining some crunch.
• Gruyère Cheese: Famous for its melting quality, it enhances the dish with rich, nutty flavors.
• Dijon Mustard: This zesty addition cuts through the richness, adding just the right kick.
• Nutmeg: A pinch adds warmth and depth. Don’t skip it!
• Green Onions: These add a fresh touch, balancing the dish.
• Paprika: A sprinkle introduces a subtle smokiness without overpowering the other flavors.

Keywords: croque monsieur casserole recipe