Irresistible Croque Monsieur : The Ultimate French Toasted Sandwich

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of white bread (or country-style bread)
• 4 ounces ham (thinly sliced)
• 4 ounces Gruyère cheese (shredded)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

1. Make the Béchamel Sauce:
   • In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for about 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until thickened (about 5 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches:
   • Spread Dijon mustard on one side of each slice of bread. Layer ham and Gruyère cheese on 4 slices, then top with the remaining bread slices.
3. Butter the Sandwiches:
   • Spread the remaining softened butter on the outside of each sandwich.
4. Cook:
   • Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
5. Add Béchamel and Cheese:
   • Preheat the oven broiler. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet. Spoon the béchamel sauce over each sandwich and sprinkle with additional Gruyère cheese.
6. Broil:
   • Broil the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Serve:
   • Slice and serve immediately, optionally with a side salad.

Enjoy:

• Indulge in your delicious Croque Monsieur!

Tips:

• For a Croque Madame, add a fried or poached egg on top!

Enjoy your classic Croque Monsieur!