Croque Monsieur Recipe

If you're looking to impress your family and friends with a classic French dish, look no further than the delectable Croque Monsieur. This delightful sandwich, with its layers of ham, gooey cheese, and creamy béchamel sauce, is the perfect comfort food that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients: - 8 slices of thick white bread - 8 slices of ham - 8 slices of Gruyère or Emmental cheese - 2 tablespoons of butter - 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour - 1 cup of milk - Salt and pepper to taste - Pinch of nutmeg

Instructions: 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. To make the béchamel sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes until it forms a paste. 3. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. 4. Season the béchamel with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Set aside. 5. Place 4 slices of bread on the prepared baking sheet. Top each slice with a slice of ham and a slice of cheese. 6. Spread a generous amount of béchamel sauce over the cheese on each slice. 7. Cover each sandwich with another slice of bread to create a sandwich. 8. Spread a little more béchamel sauce on top of each sandwich and sprinkle with additional grated cheese if desired. 9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until the sandwiches are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. 10. Serve the Croque Monsieur hot, alongside a fresh green salad or pickles for a delightful meal.

Enjoy the rich and cheesy goodness of this classic French dish right in the comfort of your own home. Bon appétit!