Indulge in the classic French sandwich known for its rich flavors and crispy texture. This refined Croque Monsieur features layers of ham and Gruyère cheese, enveloped in perfectly toasted bread and a luscious béchamel sauce, making it ideal for a luxurious lunch experience.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
In a saucepan, melt 25g of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour, whisking continuously for about 1 minute until it forms a paste.
Gradually add the milk while whisking, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook for about 5-7 minutes until the béchamel thickens. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in 100g of grated Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth.
Lay out 2 slices of bread and spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on one side (optional). Layer each with a slice of ham and a generous portion of the cheesy béchamel. Top with another slice of bread to form a sandwich.
In a skillet, melt the remaining 25g of butter over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes each side.
Once toasted, transfer the sandwiches to a baking dish. Top each sandwich with an additional slice of Gruyère cheese and some more béchamel sauce.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven, let cool for a couple of minutes, slice diagonally, and serve warm.
Tell us your preferences and we will create a personalized Croque Monsieur for you