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Croque Monsieur

Irresistible Croque Monsieur with Creamy Béchamel Bliss

Experience the ultimate Croque Monsieur with savory ham, nutty Gruyère, and luscious béchamel sauce, creating a delightful lunch experience.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Béchamel Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Swap with olive oil for a lighter version.
  • 0.25 cup Flour Whole wheat flour can work as a healthy alternative.
  • 2 Bay Leaves Consider fresh herbs for a unique twist.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 tablespoon Whole-Grain Mustard Dijon mustard can offer a sharper note.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Mustard powder is a suitable alternative.
  • 0.25 teaspoon Freshly Grated Nutmeg Ground nutmeg works in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Sea salt can be used as a substitute.
For the Sandwich
  • 8 slices Country-Style French Bread Opt for crusty bread like sourdough as a tasty alternative.
  • 8 ounces Deli Ham Turkey or chicken can lighten the sandwich.
  • 1 cup Grated Gruyère Comté or Emmental are great substitutes.
  • 1 teaspoon Herbes de Provence Italian seasoning can work if you're in a bind.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour and cook until golden.
  3. Gradually add cold whole milk, whisking continuously; add bay leaves and simmer until thickened.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in whole-grain mustard, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, and salt to taste.
  5. Spread béchamel on one side of each slice of bread; layer ham and cheese, topping with remaining slices.
  6. Sprinkle remaining cheese and herbes de Provence on top, then transfer to the oven to bake for 15 minutes.
  7. Switch to broil for 1 minute to get a crispy top; watch closely to prevent burning.
  8. Let cool for a couple of minutes, slice in half, and serve warm with a side salad or cornichons.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best results, ensure the milk is cold when making the béchamel. Layer ingredients generously for enhanced flavor.

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