Golden Cheese Cascade! Super Simple Croque Monsieur Recipe You Can Make at Home
France’s Signature Brunch Dish, The Elegant Yet Easy ‘Croque Monsieur’ Made at Home
Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside! Make a sophisticated Croque Monsieur at home, the French-style sandwich featuring a delightful combination of warm cheese and ham. It boasts a taste and visual appeal that rivals any cafe, making it perfect as a snack for kids or a light meal. We’re sharing a magical recipe that will turn an ordinary day into something special.
Sandwich Assembly Ingredients
- 3 slices of bread (not too thin is best)
- 2 slices of cheese (feel free to mix types like cheddar and mozzarella)
- 2 slices of ham (thinly sliced cooked ham recommended)
- 30g of shredded cheese (for a topping of rich flavor)
Creamy Béchamel Sauce Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp butter (approx. 30g)
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose or cake flour (approx. 20g)
- 100ml milk (lukewarm milk mixes better than cold)
- Pinch of salt (to taste)
- 2 Tbsp butter (approx. 30g)
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose or cake flour (approx. 20g)
- 100ml milk (lukewarm milk mixes better than cold)
- Pinch of salt (to taste)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, we’ll make the ‘Béchamel sauce’ that gives the Croque Monsieur its creamy texture. In a small saucepan, melt 2 Tbsp of butter over low heat. Stir gently until completely melted, being careful not to burn the butter.
Step 2
Once the butter is fully melted, sift in 2 Tbsp of flour. Using a whisk or spatula, blend the butter and flour until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. Sautéing for about 1 minute will remove the raw flour taste and bring out a nutty aroma.
Step 3
Now, gradually whisk in 100ml of milk. Using lukewarm milk instead of cold will help prevent lumps and create a smoother sauce. Continue stirring over low heat until the sauce slightly thickens. Finally, season with a tiny pinch of salt to complete the Béchamel sauce. Be careful not to over-salt!
Step 4
Take one slice of bread and spread a generous layer of the prepared Béchamel sauce evenly over one side using a spoon or brush. Spreading the sauce liberally will ensure the bread stays moist and flavorful.
Step 5
On top of the Béchamel-coated bread, layer 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of cheese. It’s okay if the ham and cheese slightly overhang the edges of the bread; they will melt beautifully during baking.
Step 6
Place another slice of bread on top to form a sandwich. Spread Béchamel sauce on this top slice as well, then add another layer of ham and cheese. This creates a double-decker Croque Monsieur.
Step 7
Finally, spread a generous amount of Béchamel sauce on the last slice of bread and sprinkle 30g of shredded cheese evenly over it. The cheese will melt and turn golden brown, making it look incredibly appetizing.
Step 8
Preheat your oven to 180℃ (350℉). Place the Croque Monsieur inside and bake for approximately 10 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on your oven, so bake until the cheese on top is golden and melted, and the bread is nicely toasted. If using an air fryer, bake at 170℃ (340℉) for about 7-8 minutes.
Step 9
Finally, sprinkle a little dried parsley over the finished Croque Monsieur for a beautiful garnish. Your cafe-worthy Croque Monsieur is ready! Enjoy it immediately while it’s warm to savor the full flavor of the melted cheese.
