Croque Monsieur Sandwich Recipe – Great Meal Recipes

When enjoying a classic Croque Monsieur sandwich, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the whole experience. A simple green salad made with arugula or mixed greens and dressed with a zesty vinaigrette offers a light, refreshing contrast to the sandwich’s richness.

A squeeze of lemon adds a burst of freshness that balances out the creamy layers. For a comforting touch, creamy tomato soup is a perfect companion, its smooth texture and tangy flavor complementing the cheesy, savory sandwich beautifully. 

French fries, crispy and golden, bring a fun, casual vibe to the meal. For an extra flavor boost, dipping them in homemade aioli adds a delightful twist. Finally, pickles or pickled vegetables, such as tangy cucumbers or fermented veggies, provide a crunchy, briny contrast that helps to cut through the richness of the Croque Monsieur. 

Together, these sides create a well-rounded and memorable meal.

What Is a Croque Monsieur Sandwich?

Simply put, a Croque Monsieur is a hot sandwich made from ham and Gruyère cheese, layered with a creamy béchamel sauce. Imagine biting into toasted bread that gives way to rich, gooey cheese and savory ham—now that’s a mouthful of joy!

This dish can be served in various settings: a quick lunch, a fancy brunch, or a cozy dinner. With a side of fries or a green salad, it transforms into a well-rounded meal.

Why This Recipe Works?

This recipe stands out for several reasons:

1. Layers of Flavor:
The harmony between the salty ham, nutty Gruyère, and creamy béchamel creates a symphony of taste. This blend captures the essence of French cuisine, where every ingredient shines.

2. Comfort Food at Its Best:
With crisp bread and a warmth that wraps around you, this sandwich evokes nostalgia and comfort. The crunch from toasting and the gooey interior provides a satisfying texture contrast.

3. Versatility:
Feel free to switch things up. Want to go meatless? Use mushrooms or spinach instead of ham. The béchamel works with various fillings, so get creative!

4. Make-Ahead Potential:
You can prepare the ingredients in advance. Mix the béchamel the night before and assemble your sandwiches when you’re ready. It’s perfect for busy days or when entertaining guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Croque Monsieur Sandwich

To craft your own delightful version of a Croque Monsieur, gather the following ingredients:

Béchamel Sauce:

• 1½ cups whole milk
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (½ stick)
• Pinch of fine sea salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon whole-grain mustard
• 1 tablespoon finely minced shallots

Sandwich:

• 5 ounces premium-quality ham (about 8 slices)
• 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves
• 8 slices soft white sandwich bread
• 6 ounces Gruyère cheese, or Emmental cheese, shredded (about 2½ cups)
• ¼ cup fresh grated Parmigiano Reggiano

How to Make This Croque Monsieur Sandwich

Let’s get going! Here’s how to whip up your own Croque Monsieur in a few easy steps.

Step 1: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

• In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced shallots and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
• Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for a minute to create a roux. It should turn a light golden color.
• Gradually whisk in the whole milk, making sure there are no lumps. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens.
• Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and whole-grain mustard for that zing. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

• Lay out the slices of soft white bread. Start with one slice and layer on the ham and thyme leaves.
• Generously sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese over the ham. Don’t skimp here; you want that cheesy goodness.
• Top it with another slice of bread. Repeat for the desired number of sandwiches.

Step 3: Apply the Béchamel Sauce

• Preheat your skillet on medium heat.
• Spread a layer of béchamel sauce on the top of each sandwich. Sprinkle a bit of Parmigiano Reggiano on top for that irresistible crust.

Step 4: Toast the Sandwiches

• Place sandwiches in the skillet, béchamel side up. Cook until golden brown on the bottom, about 3-4 minutes.
• Carefully flip and apply more béchamel on the un-toasted side of the sandwich. Cook for another 3-4 minutes. You want both sides to be perfectly toasted.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Once golden and melty, transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board. Slice them in half and serve immediately. Enjoy with your paired side dishes!

Tips for the Perfect Croque Monsieur Sandwich

Here are some handy tips to ensure your sandwich turns out perfectly:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Quality ham and cheese make a big difference. Seek out freshly sliced deli meats and good cheese.
• Don’t Skip the Mustard: This ingredient adds a unique depth to the béchamel. It’s subtle, but its absence is noticeable.
• Toast to Perfection: Ensure each side develops a good crust. A hot skillet is essential for this.
• Try Variations: Experiment with cheese types or try adding sautéed mushrooms for a twist.
• Timing is Key: If making in advance, prepare the béchamel ahead of time, but toast the sandwiches fresh before serving.

How to Store the Leftovers?

If you find yourself with any leftover sandwich (though that’s rare), here’s how to store it:

• Refrigeration: Wrap it in foil or store it in an airtight container. It will keep for about 2 days in the fridge.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to eat, the best way to reheat is in a skillet over medium-low heat. This will revive the crunch.

Recommended Side Dishes for Croque Monsieur Sandwich

Pairing your Croque Monsieur with the right side can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions:

1. Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette counters the richness of the sandwich. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for color.

2. French Fries: You can never go wrong with fries! They add a casual touch to this dish. Try oven-baked for a healthier option.

3. Tomato Soup: A classic pairing! Its acidity cleanses the palate and balances the creamy sandwich.

4. Pickled Veggies: The crunch and tang from pickles cut through the richness of the ham and cheese, creating a refreshing bite.

Substitute Options for the Ingredients

If you’re missing some ingredients, don’t fret! Here are some alternatives:

1. Cheese Alternatives: If Gruyère isn’t available, Emmental or even a sharp cheddar can work well. Each provides a different flavor profile.

2. Ham Varieties: Turkey or chicken slices can replace traditional ham. They reduce fat but still deliver a protein punch.

3. Béchamel Base: If you want a quicker option, use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making béchamel. It won’t have the same depth, but it saves time.

4. Bread Choices: Feel free to use whole grain or sourdough bread for added flavor.

Conclusion

The Croque Monsieur sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that bursts with flavor and comfort. From its origins in France to your kitchen, this dish celebrates the beauty of simple ingredients coming together. 

With the right tools and a little creativity, you can impress family and friends with your own version of this classic. So grab your ingredients, take your time, and enjoy every bite of this delicious treat. Happy cooking!

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