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- Thick-cut white bread - Ham (deli-quality) - Gruyère/Swiss cheese - Dijon mustard - Unsalted butter - All-purpose flour - Milk (whole or 2%) - Nutmeg - Salt and pepper - Topping options

Croque Monsieur

Elevate your lunch with this simple and delicious Croque Monsieur recipe! Discover how to make this classic French sandwich featuring layers of ham, gooey cheese, and a creamy béchamel sauce. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself, this dish is easy to prepare and absolutely mouthwatering. Click through to explore the full recipe and unleash your culinary creativity with flavor-packed tips and variations!
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Ingredients
  

4 slices of thick-cut white bread

4 slices of ham (preferably from a good quality deli)

4 slices of Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 cup milk (whole or 2%)

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated if possible)

Salt and pepper to taste

Extra Gruyère cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Béchamel Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste (roux). Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and is lump-free, approximately 5-7 minutes.

    Season the Sauce: Stir in nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.

      Assemble the Sandwiches: Take two slices of bread and spread a layer of Dijon mustard on each slice. Place a slice of ham, followed by a slice of Gruyère cheese on one piece, and top with the other slice of bread, mustard side down.

        Toast the Sandwiches: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, place the sandwiches in the skillet. Grill each side until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

          Add the Béchamel: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and place them on a baking sheet. Spoon a generous amount of the béchamel sauce over each sandwich, and sprinkle extra Gruyère cheese on top if desired.

            Broil: Broil in the oven on high for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

              Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute before slicing in half on the diagonal. Serve warm and enjoy!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 30 mins | 2 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve on a rustic wooden board with a side of mixed salad greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a complete meal.