Croque-Monsieur Recipe

Background and History

The Croque-Monsieur is a classic French sandwich that first appeared on Parisian café menus in the early 20th century. The name “croque-monsieur” roughly translates to “mister crunch,” reflecting its crispy texture. This delicious dish is essentially a grilled ham and cheese sandwich, elevated with a creamy béchamel sauce. It’s a staple of French bistros and a beloved comfort food worldwide.

Recipe Guide

Serves

• 2 people

Time

• Total preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time

• Cooking time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 slices of white or sourdough bread
• 2 tablespoons of butter (softened)
• 4 slices of cooked ham
• 4 slices of Gruyère or Emmental cheese
• 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of milk
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

• In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
• Add the flour and whisk constantly until it forms a smooth paste (about 1 minute).
• Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
• Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

Assemble the Sandwiches

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a griddle/pan over medium heat.
• Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on two slices of bread.
• Place a slice of cheese on top of the béchamel.
• Add two slices of ham on top of the cheese.
• Spread a little Dijon mustard on the remaining two slices of bread (optional).
• Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices.

Cook the Sandwiches

• Spread butter on the outside of each sandwich.
• If using an oven, place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes, then flip and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
• If using a griddle or pan, cook the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Top and Serve

• If desired, spread a little more béchamel sauce on top of each sandwich.
• Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the béchamel.
• Place the sandwiches under a broiler for 2-3 minutes, until the top is bubbly and lightly browned.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 1300mg

Notes

• For a Croque-Madame variation, add a fried or poached egg on top of each sandwich before serving.
• You can substitute Gruyère or Emmental with other melting cheeses like Swiss or cheddar if preferred.
• For added flavor, consider adding a thin slice of tomato or a few leaves of fresh spinach inside the sandwich.

Allergy Warning

• Contains dairy (butter, milk, cheese)
• Contains gluten (bread, flour)
• Contains pork (ham)
• Mustard (optional) may cause allergies in some individuals

Enjoy your homemade Croque-Monsieur, a taste of French culinary tradition right in your kitchen!

What is the difference between a Monte Cristo and a Croque-Monsieur?

A Monte Cristo is a variation of the Croque-Monsieur that is typically dipped in egg batter and fried, giving it a French toast-like quality. It is often served with powdered sugar and a side of jam or preserves, adding a sweet element to the savory sandwich.

Why is it called a Croque-Monsieur?

The name “Croque-Monsieur” comes from the French words “croquer” (to crunch) and “monsieur” (mister). It refers to the sandwich’s crispy texture when toasted or grilled.

What is the difference between a Croque Madame and a Croque-Monsieur?

A Croque Madame is similar to a Croque-Monsieur but with the addition of a fried or poached egg on top. The egg resembles a lady’s hat, which is why it is called “Madame.”

What is Croque-Monsieur made of?

A Croque-Monsieur is made of sliced bread, ham, and cheese, typically Gruyère or Emmental. It is topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and then toasted or grilled until crispy and golden.

What country is Croque-Monsieur from?

Croque-Monsieur originates from France. It is a popular French bistro and café staple.

What is “croque” in French?

In French, “croque” means “crunch” or “bite,” reflecting the sandwich’s crispy texture.

When should I eat Croque-Monsieur?

Croque-Monsieur can be enjoyed at any time of the day, but it is commonly served as a lunch or brunch dish. It also makes for a hearty snack or a light dinner.

What is the English word for “croque”?

The English word for “croque” is “crunch.”

Is Croque-Monsieur masculine or feminine?

The term “Croque-Monsieur” is masculine in French, as indicated by the word “monsieur,” which means “mister.”

How do you eat a Croque-Monsieur?

A Croque-Monsieur is typically eaten with a knife and fork due to its rich béchamel topping and melted cheese. It can be enjoyed on its own or served with a side salad or fries.