Delicious Croque Monsieur In Just 6 Easy Steps

The croque monsieur is a quintessential French bistro dish that embodies the very essence of comfort food. This elegant, savory sandwich features a perfectly golden crust, a rich and creamy béchamel sauce, and a generous layer of melted Gruyère cheese. Simple to make yet incredibly satisfying, this croque monsieur is an ideal choice for a sophisticated lunch or a comforting dinner.

What is a Croque Monsieur?

A croque monsieur is a classic French grilled sandwich that is known for its rich and indulgent components. The name translates to “mister crunch” in English, a fitting description for its crispy, toasted exterior. The sandwich is traditionally built with layers of bread, sliced meat, and cheese, then topped with a luxurious béchamel sauce and more cheese before being broiled to golden, bubbly perfection. The result is a decadent and deeply flavorful sandwich that is a cornerstone of French cuisine.

Ingredients

For the Béchamel Sauce

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg, freshly grated
• Salt and white pepper, to taste

For the Sandwich

• 4 slices of good quality sandwich bread or brioche
• 4-6 slices smoked turkey or other sliced deli meat
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese, divided
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

How to Make a Classic Croque Monsieur

1. Make the Béchamel Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the nutmeg, salt, and white pepper.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Lay out two slices of bread. On each, spread a generous layer of the warm béchamel sauce. Place two slices of smoked turkey on top of the béchamel. Sprinkle a small amount of shredded Gruyère cheese over the turkey. Place the remaining two slices of bread on top to form two sandwiches.
3. Grill the Sandwiches: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Spread softened butter on the outside of each sandwich. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and the cheese inside is starting to melt.
4. Finish in the Oven: Preheat your oven broiler to high. Transfer the sandwiches to a baking sheet. Spread a generous amount of the remaining béchamel sauce over the top of each sandwich, then top with the remaining shredded Gruyère cheese. Place the sandwiches under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Serve: Remove the croque monsieur from the oven. Serve immediately, as this classic is best enjoyed warm.

Tips for the Perfect Croque Monsieur

• Freshly Grated Cheese: Using freshly grated Gruyère cheese is essential for a smooth, even melt. Pre-shredded cheese can contain anti-caking agents that affect the texture.
• The Right Bread: A sturdy, thick-sliced bread is key to holding up to the creamy béchamel sauce and rich filling without getting soggy.
• Don’t Rush the Béchamel: Whisking constantly as you add the milk to the roux will prevent lumps and ensure a perfectly smooth sauce.
• Add an Egg for a “Madame”: For a croque monsieur with an elegant twist, top it with a fried egg to make it a Croque Madame.

Conclusion

This croque monsieur is a timeless classic that is both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. The combination of its creamy, savory, and cheesy elements makes it a truly memorable meal.

Delicious Croque Monsieur In Just 6 Easy Steps

foodifa

A delicious and elegant recipe for a classic croque monsieur, using a creamy béchamel sauce and rich Gruyère cheese.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine French

Servings 2

Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Béchamel Sauce

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg freshly grated
• Salt and white pepper to taste

For the Sandwich

• 4 slices of good quality sandwich bread or brioche
• 4-6 slices smoked turkey or other sliced deli meat
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese divided
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened

Instructions

 

• Make the Béchamel Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the nutmeg, salt, and white pepper.
• Assemble the Sandwich: Lay out two slices of bread. On each, spread a generous layer of the warm béchamel sauce. Place two slices of smoked turkey on top of the béchamel. Sprinkle a small amount of shredded Gruyère cheese over the turkey. Place the remaining two slices of bread on top to form two sandwiches.
• Grill the Sandwiches: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Spread softened butter on the outside of each sandwich. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and the cheese inside is starting to melt.
• Finish in the Oven: Preheat your oven broiler to high. Transfer the sandwiches to a baking sheet. Spread a generous amount of the remaining béchamel sauce over the top of each sandwich, then top with the remaining shredded Gruyère cheese. Place the sandwiches under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Serve: Remove the croque monsieur from the oven. Serve immediately, as this classic is best enjoyed warm.

Notes

• This recipe can easily be adapted. For a richer flavor, you can use brioche bread.

Keyword béchamel sauce, cheese sandwich, croque monsieur, french sandwich, gruyère