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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.
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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.