Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Savory French Croque Monsieur for Homemade Comfort Bliss Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 85 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Sandwich
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: French

Description

A classic French Croque Monsieur recipe featuring layers of savory ham and melted Gruyère cheese between buttery toasted bread, finished with a crispy Parmesan topping for comforting homemade indulgence.


Ingredients

Scale

Bread and Butter

  • 4 slices sliced bread (sourdough or brioche recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (generously spread)

Fillings

  • 4 slices ham (Black Forest or smoked ham)
  • 4 slices Gruyère or Swiss cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 pinch nutmeg (for added flavor)

Topping

  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Start by selecting your favorite sliced bread and lay out the slices on a clean surface to assemble your sandwiches.
  2. Butter the Bread: Generously spread butter on one side of each bread slice. This will help achieve a golden crisp when cooked.
  3. Add Ham and Cheese: Place a slice of ham on the unbuttered side of half the bread slices. Top each with a slice of Gruyère or Swiss cheese. Optionally, spread Dijon mustard and sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg on the ham before adding cheese for extra flavor.
  4. Assemble Sandwiches: Place the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up, on top of the cheese to form sandwiches.
  5. Cook on Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet, buttered side down, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bread turns golden brown.
  6. Flip and Cook: Carefully flip the sandwiches with a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is crispy and the cheese has melted inside.
  7. Optional Broiling: For an extra crispy top, transfer the sandwiches to a baking sheet, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, and broil for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Notes

  • Using sourdough or brioche bread enhances the texture and flavor of the sandwich.
  • Gruyère cheese provides the best authentic flavor, but Swiss cheese is a good substitute.
  • Dijon mustard and nutmeg add a subtle depth of flavor—feel free to omit if preferred.
  • Broiling with Parmesan topping is optional but recommended for a crispy, cheesy crust.
  • Ensure the skillet is at medium heat to prevent burning the bread before the cheese melts.