Classic Croque Monsieur The Ultimate French Grilled Cheese

Ingredients :

8 slices white bread (baguette or toast bread)
4 slices cooked ham
150g Gruyère cheese, grated
50g butter, melted
2 tablespoons flour
300ml milk
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Pinch of nutmeg
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Make the Béchamel Sauce:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until the mixture is lightly golden.

Gradually add the milk while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Let the sauce simmer until thickened.
Stir in the Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

2. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Spread a layer of béchamel sauce on each bread slice.

Place a slice of ham and a generous amount of grated Gruyère on four of the bread slices.
Top with the remaining bread slices, sauce-side up.

Spread more béchamel sauce on top and sprinkle with the remaining Gruyère cheese.
3. Bake:

Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and the bread is crispy.

4. Serve:
Serve the Croque Monsieur hot, ideally with a fresh green salad or cornichons. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: 450 per serving