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Croque Monsieur Croissant Recipe

Croque Monsieur Croissant Recipe - Great Meal Recipes

When it comes to brunch, few dishes rival the comforting blend of flavors in a croque monsieur croissant. Imagine flaky, buttery croissants filled with layers of melted cheese and savory ham, bathed in a creamy béchamel sauce. 
Whether you’re enjoying it on a lazy Sunday morning or serving it at a gathering, this recipe sparks joy and conversation.
To elevate this delightful dish further, you might consider pairing it with a light salad, a fruit medley, or perhaps a refreshing beverage. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can provide contrast to the rich flavors, while a glass of sparkling lemonade adds a citrusy kick.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 643
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 lb sliced smoked ham
  • 1/2 lb sliced Gruyère or Emmental cheese
  • 6 large day-old croissants or 9 mini croissants
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp coarse kosher salt
Béchamel Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard
  • 1 tsp coarse kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup sautéed onions

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
  1. Start by making your béchamel.
    • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
    • Once melted, add the flour, whisking constantly for about two minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.
    • Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until it thickens, roughly 5-7 minutes, stirring continuously.
    • Stir in the Dijon mustard, nutmeg, and sautéed onions. Season with kosher salt to taste. Set aside.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
  1. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking.
Step 3: Assemble the Croissants
    • Slice open each croissant lengthwise.
    • Layer the bottom half with slices of ham and a generous helping of Gruyère cheese.
    • Spoon some of the béchamel on top of the cheese. It should coat the filling nicely.
    • Place the top half of the croissant on each assembled bottom and lightly press down.
Step 4: Bake
    • Place the assembled croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    • Drizzle some béchamel over the top of each croissant, allowing it to seep in.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes. The croissants should be golden brown and the cheese bubbling.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Allow the croissants to rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy this wonder with your favorite side salad or drink!

Notes

  • Stale Croissants: Day-old croissants work best because they hold up better against baking. Fresh croissants might get too soggy.
  • Whisking: When making the béchamel, constantly whisking helps create a smooth sauce. Lumps are a no-go.
  • Layering: Don’t skimp on the fillings! Ensure each croissant has enough ham and cheese for that irresistible flavor in every bite.
  • Add Veggies: For an extra twist, try incorporating sautéed spinach or mushrooms in the filling for additional flavor and nutrition.
  • Make Ahead: You can assemble the croissants ahead of time and bake them just before serving. They reheat beautifully, too!