When I attended Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, I fell head-over-heels for the classic Croque Monsieur. In my rendition, I stay true to the French tradition... but with a delicious Italian twist. By adding a generous sprinkle of Parmigiano Reggiano, this beloved sandwich gets elevated to new heights of flavor. The result is a perfectly balanced bite: crisp, golden bread encasing a melty and decadent filling.

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Croque Monsieur

Servings

4

Prep Time

3 minutes

Cook Time

13 minutes

Image of Croque Monsieur

Ingredients

  • 4 slices rustic white country bread
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/3 pound thinly sliced black forest ham
  • 1/4 pound Gruyere cheese (grated on the large holes of a box grater, divided)
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the broiler to high.
  2. Place the slices of bread on a baking sheet and lightly spread each slice with the softened butter. Place under the broiler and toast for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip each slice over and toast the other side for another 3 minutes. Remove the tray from the oven.
  3. Using a butter knife or a small rubber spatula spread each slice of toast with some of the mustard. Divide the ham on to the 4 slices and top with some of the Gruyere, reserving a 1/4 cup for later use.
  4. Return the tray to the oven for 3 minutes to melt the cheese. Form the sandwiches by putting two slices of the topped toast together. In a small bowl mix together the remaining 1/4 cup Gruyere and the parmesan cheese. Divide the cheese mixture evenly on top of the two sandwiches. Return to the broiler and allow the cheese to melt, approximately 2 minutes. Serve warm.
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