Go Back
Croque Monsieur And Croque Madame Recipe

Croque Monsieur And Croque Madame Recipe - Great Meal Recipes

Croque monsieur is the French version of a grilled cheese sandwich, but even better. Originating in Paris, it’s a delightfully decadent combination of ham, cheese, and béchamel sauce served between slices of toast. Add an egg on top, and voilà, you have a croque madame! 
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 664
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Béchamel Sauce:
  • 1.5 cups whole milk
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup ¼ cup unsalted butter ½ stick
  • Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Sandwich:
  • 6 ounces Gruyère or Emmental cheese, finely grated about 2½ cups
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • 5 ounces high-quality ham approximately 8 slices
  • 8 thin slices of soft white bread
  • 1/2 cup sautéed spinach

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
  1. Start by heating the whole milk in a saucepan until just warm. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
  1. Once the mixture thickens, which will take around five minutes, season with salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
  1. Take four slices of bread and lay them flat. Layer on the ham and distribute the sautéed spinach evenly if using. Sprinkle with half of the Gruyère and all of the Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Step 4: Create Layers
  1. Place another slice of bread on top of each sandwich. Now, generously spread béchamel sauce over the tops of each sandwich. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
Step 5: Cook the Sandwich
  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of butter or oil. Once hot, place your sandwiches in the pan. Cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Carefully flip and cook the other side.
Step 6: Take It to the Next Level
  1. If making croque madame, fry or poach an egg per sandwich and put the egg on top before serving. Drizzle with remaining béchamel for extra indulgence

Notes

  • Use Quality Ingredients: Select good quality ham and cheese for the best flavor.
  • Adjust Cheese Varieties: Try different cheeses like cheddar or a mix for a unique taste.
  • Don't Skip the Béchamel: It really elevates the flavor profile, adding creaminess.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Add chopped fresh herbs such as thyme or chives for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Toast the Bread Lightly: Pre-toasting the bread slightly yields a better crunch.