Go Back

FRENCHIE'S CROQUE MONSIEUR

A classic French café sandwich inspired by the charming harbor town of Cassis, France. Layers of savory ham and nutty Gruyère cheese are tucked between buttery toasted bread, then finished with a creamy béchamel sauce and bubbling golden cheese. Simple, comforting, and unmistakably French.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine French
Servings 4 sandwiches

Ingredients
  

For the Sandwiches

  • 8 slices sturdy country-style white bread
  • 8 slices Black Forest ham or Paris ham
  • 8 ounces Gruyère cheese sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened

For the Béchamel Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ? teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg optional

For the Topping

  • 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
  • Fresh parsley or chives chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions
 

Make the Béchamel

  • Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  • Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
  • Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth.
  • Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Remove from heat.

Assemble the Sandwiches

  • Lightly butter one side of each slice of bread.
  • Spread Dijon mustard on the inside of four slices.
  • Layer ham and sliced Gruyère cheese over the mustard.
  • Top with the remaining bread, buttered side facing outward.

Toast

  • Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
  • Cook sandwiches for about 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese begins to melt.

Finish Under the Broiler

  • Place toasted sandwiches on a baking sheet.
  • Spread a generous layer of béchamel over the tops.
  • Sprinkle with grated Gruyère.
  • Broil 2–4 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and beautifully browned.

Serve

  • Serve immediately with:
  • Mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette
  • Fresh grapes or sliced figs
  • A crisp apple or pear
  • A glass of Châteauneuf-du-Pape or a chilled Provence rosé
  • Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Notes

What is a Croque Monsieur?
Croque Monsieur is one of France's most beloved café sandwiches. The name roughly translates to "Crunch Mister," a nod to its wonderfully crisp, buttery crust. Unlike an ordinary grilled ham and cheese, it's finished with a creamy béchamel sauce and extra Gruyère cheese before being broiled until golden and bubbly.

SOOT's  Tip

For the most authentic flavor, use a good-quality Gruyère cheese and hearty country bread. The béchamel may seem like an extra step, but it's what transforms this sandwich from everyday comfort food into a true French café classic.