Croque Monsieur

Croque Monsieur

 

Croque Monsieur

Croque Monsieur is a classic French hot ham and cheese sandwich, perfect for a quick, indulgent meal. Made with layers of cooked ham, Gruyère cheese, and buttered bread, it’s grilled to crispy, golden perfection. A satisfying dish that can be paired with a simple green salad for a balanced meal, often drizzled with a tangy mustard vinaigrette. This delicious sandwich is simple yet rich in flavor, ideal for a casual lunch or dinner.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Sandwiches
Cuisine: French
Keyword: Croque Monsieur
Servings: 2
Calories: 550kcal

Ingredients

  • 3 teaspoons butter, room temperature
  • 4 slices sandwich bread
  • 2 slices European cooked ham
  • 4 slices Gruyere

Instructions

  • Preheat skillet over medium heat. 
  • Generously butter one side of a slice of bread. Place the bread butter-side-down onto skillet bottom and add one folded slice of ham between two slices of cheese. 
  • Butter a second slice of bread on one side and place butter-side-up on top of the sandwich. Grill until lightly browned, then flip over. Continue grilling until cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining 2 slices of bread, butter, and slice of cheese. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Note: You may find some recipes with Béchamel. I personally like it better without.
  • Origin: The origin of the name Croque Monsieur is uncertain, but the first part is derived from the verb, "croquer" (to crunch or to munch). It originated in France as a fast food snack served in cafes.
  • History: The Croque Monsieur appeared on Parisian cafe menus in 1910. Its earliest published use has been traced back to volume 2 of Proust's "à la recherche du temps perdu" (1918).

Cooking Tips for Croque Monsieur:

  1. Use Fresh Bread: Always opt for fresh, thick-cut sandwich bread for the best flavor and texture.
  2. Perfect Grill: For a crispier crust, use unsalted butter and generously butter both sides of the bread. Ensure your skillet is at medium heat to avoid burning.
  3. Cheese Choice: Gruyère is traditional, but you can mix in a little Swiss cheese for a milder flavor or add a touch of cheddar for more richness.
  4. Add a Personal Twist: For a Croque Madame, simply top with a fried egg after grilling the sandwich. It adds an extra creamy texture and makes it even more indulgent.
  5. Make it Saucy: Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the bread before adding cheese for a more authentic, creamy texture.

These simple tips will help you elevate your Croque Monsieur, turning it into a delightful French-style treat perfect for any meal of the day!

Discover the World of Pizza and Elevate Your Cooking Skills!

Explore our diverse pizza recipes for every palate at Pizza Recipes.

Ready to become a culinary pro? Our culinary school offers courses for all skill levels, helping you master everything from foundational techniques to advanced culinary artistry.

🎥 Follow along on our YouTube Cooking Channel for hands-on tutorials, expert tips, and inspiration to make every cooking experience enjoyable and rewarding!

Scroll to Top