The Croque Monsieur is a classic French sandwich made with layers of ham, creamy béchamel sauce, and melted cheese on crispy, golden-baked sourdough bread. Rich, cheesy, and full of flavor, this indulgent sandwich is perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner. Serve it with a simple green salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Béchamel Sauce:
▢ ¼ cup butter
▢ ¼ cup all-purpose flour
▢ 3 cups whole milk
▢ 2 garlic cloves, finely grated
▢ 1 sprig sage
▢ 1 sprig thyme
▢ 1 teaspoon lemon zest
▢ Pinch of nutmeg or cardamom (optional)
▢ Kosher salt, to taste

For the Sandwich:
▢ 12 slices sourdough bread
▢ 18 thick-cut slices ham
▢ 2 cups grated Gruyere cheese, divided
▢ 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.

Slowly whisk in the milk and add the garlic, sage, and thyme. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in half of the Gruyere and Parmesan cheese, along with the lemon zest, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
Spread the béchamel sauce on both sides of each slice of bread.

Layer with ham and a sprinkle of cheese, then top with another slice of bread to form a sandwich.

Spread any remaining cheese on top of the sandwiches.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden
Place the sandwiches on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Serve immediately while warm, with a side of salad or soup.

Nutrients

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 520 kcal
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Protein: 32 g
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 15 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg
Sodium: 920 mg
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 4 g

The History of the Croque Monsieur

The Croque Monsieur first appeared in French cafés and bistros in the early 20th century, quickly becoming a staple in Parisian cuisine. The name “Croque Monsieur” loosely translates to “Mister Crunch”, referring to the sandwich’s signature crispy texture.

Legend has it that the dish was created by accident when a café owner left a ham and cheese sandwich near a radiator, causing the cheese to melt and the bread to crisp up. The resulting sandwich was so delicious that it became a menu item, eventually spreading throughout France and beyond.

The Croque Monsieur inspired several variations, including the Croque Madame, which features a fried egg on top, and even gourmet twists with truffle, Dijon mustard, or different cheeses. Despite these variations, the classic version remains a timeless favorite.

What Makes This Sandwich Special?

The Croque Monsieur is more than just a toasted ham and cheese sandwich. Each component works together to create a luxurious yet approachable dish:

The Bread: Traditional sourdough or country-style bread is used for its crisp texture and ability to hold up to the rich béchamel sauce.
The Béchamel Sauce: This creamy, buttery white sauce infused with garlic, thyme, and nutmeg elevates the sandwich beyond a standard grilled cheese.
The Cheese: Gruyère and Parmesan create a perfectly balanced, nutty, and slightly sharp flavor that melts beautifully.
The Ham: Thick-cut, high-quality ham provides a savory contrast to the creamy and cheesy elements.

Why You’ll Love This Croque Monsieur Recipe

This Croque Monsieur recipe delivers a perfectly crispy, cheesy, and flavorful sandwich every time. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

Authentic French Flavor: This version stays true to traditional French techniques while being easy to make at home.
Perfectly Balanced Texture: The crispy, golden-baked bread contrasts beautifully with the melted cheese and velvety béchamel sauce.
Great for Any Meal: It’s satisfying enough for lunch, dinner, or even brunch when topped with a fried egg for a Croque Madame variation.
Simple Yet Elegant: It’s an effortless way to bring French bistro flavors to your table.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Croque Monsieur

The richness of the Croque Monsieur pairs well with lighter sides and refreshing beverages. Here are some great accompaniments:

Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, vinaigrette, and walnuts balances the sandwich’s richness.
Tomato Soup: The classic combination of grilled cheese and tomato soup works beautifully with Croque Monsieur.
French Fries or Chips: If you’re looking for a heartier meal, crispy fries or kettle chips add extra crunch.
Cornichons (French Pickles): Their tangy, acidic bite cuts through the creaminess of the sandwich.
Glass of Wine: A Chardonnay or light Pinot Noir pairs well with the cheese and ham.

Variations and Ways to Customize Your Croque Monsieur

While the classic Croque Monsieur is already perfect, you can try these delicious variations to suit different tastes:

Croque Madame: The most famous variation, featuring a fried or poached egg on top.
Truffle Croque Monsieur: Add truffle oil or truffle butter to the béchamel sauce for an extra luxurious touch.
Dijon Mustard Croque Monsieur: Spread Dijon mustard on the bread before assembling the sandwich for a tangy kick.
Smoked Salmon Croque Monsieur: Swap out ham for smoked salmon for a seafood-inspired version.
Vegetarian Croque Monsieur: Use roasted mushrooms, caramelized onions, or spinach instead of ham.

Tips for Making the Best Croque Monsieur

For the ultimate Croque Monsieur, follow these key tips to ensure a crispy, cheesy, and perfectly baked sandwich:

Use High-Quality Bread: A sturdy, thick-cut sourdough or country bread works best for holding the sauce and cheese without becoming soggy.
Don’t Skip the Béchamel: The rich béchamel sauce is what makes this sandwich special. Take your time whisking it to avoid lumps.
Bake Instead of Pan-Frying: While some recipes use a skillet, baking the sandwich ensures an even, golden-brown crust and allows the cheese to fully melt.
Broil for Extra Crispiness: For a crispier top, place the sandwich under the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the sandwich to cool slightly helps the flavors meld together.

Best Drinks to Pair with Croque Monsieur

A rich sandwich like Croque Monsieur pairs beautifully with the right beverage. Here are some top choices:

White Wine: A Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy béchamel and cheese.
Red Wine: A light-bodied Pinot Noir or Beaujolais pairs well without overpowering the dish.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing, non-alcoholic option that cuts through the richness.
French Press Coffee: Perfect for a brunch or lunch pairing, especially with a Croque Madame.
Apple Cider: A slightly sweet cider enhances the salty ham and cheese flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftover Croque Monsieur, here’s how to store and reheat it for the best results:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze the sandwich for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing, then reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

The Croque Monsieur is a timeless French bistro classic that takes the humble ham and cheese sandwich to a whole new level. With its crispy golden bread, gooey melted cheese, and rich béchamel sauce, it’s the perfect indulgence for lunch, dinner, or even brunch.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a fun variation like Croque Madame, this sandwich is guaranteed to impress. Pair it with a fresh salad, a warm soup, or a crisp glass of wine for a complete, restaurant-worthy meal.

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