Croque Monsieur
A classic French grilled ham & cheese sandwich (The sandwich that went to Private School! )
Golden, indulgent, and unapologetically comforting.
A croque monsieur is the classic French grilled ham and cheese sandwich, but taken one glorious step further. Toasted bread layered with ham and cheese, then topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and more cheese before being baked or grilled until bubbling and golden.
It originated in France in the early 1900s, first appearing in Parisian cafés as an easy yet indulgent lunch. The name loosely translates to “Mr Crunch”, and honestly, it delivers exactly that.
Simple ingredients, elevated technique, and pure comfort food energy. Best enjoyed hot, messy, and with zero regrets.
Simple ingredients, elevated technique, and pure comfort food energy. Best enjoyed hot, messy, and with zero regrets.
Your List of Ingredients
4 slices good-quality white bread (sourdough or brioche work beautifully)
2–3 slices good ham (smoked or honey-roast)
1 cup grated Gruyère or Emmental cheese
2 tbsp butter, softened
1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, but traditional)
For the béchamel sauce
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp flour
1 cup milk, warmed
Salt & white pepper, to taste
A pinch of nutmeg (optional but recommended)
Step 1: Make the béchamel
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, until lightly bubbling. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened. Season with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the sandwiches
Lightly butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard if using.
Step 3: Assemble
Place two slices of bread (buttered side down) on a board. Layer with ham, a small handful of grated cheese, and a spoonful of béchamel. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing up.
Step 4: Cook
Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Toast the sandwiches until golden and crisp on both sides and the cheese inside has melted.
Step 5: Finish under the grill
Place the toasted sandwiches on a baking tray. Spread a generous spoonful of béchamel over the top, sprinkle with the remaining cheese, and grill until bubbling and lightly golden.
Step 6: serve
Serve hot, with a crisp green salad or lightly dressed leaves for balance.
Try a Croque Madame
A Croque Madame is simply a Croque Monsieur topped with a perfectly fried egg. The runny yolk adds richness and is traditionally said to resemble a lady’s hat, hence the name. If you’re feeling indulgent (or serving brunch), it’s well worth the upgrade
Comments