Indulge in the exquisite Baked Croque Monsieur, a culinary masterpiece that elevates the classic French sandwich to new heights. This delectable dish features layers of tender ham, melted cheese, and a velvety béchamel sauce, all encased in golden-brown bread. Experience the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in every bite, complemented by a tangy Dijon mustard spread. Whether you prefer the traditional Gruyère cheese or a more adventurous blend, the Baked Croque Monsieur offers endless possibilities for customization. Discover the art of creating this iconic dish with our step-by-step recipe, along with variations such as the vegetarian-friendly Croque Madame and the open-faced Croque Open. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this unforgettable culinary journey.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
BAKED CROQUE MONSIEUR
Croque Monsieur, a Continental cross between French toast and grilled ham-and cheese, feeds a crowd when you bake it casserole style, in the oven. This recipe comes from the " Bakers' Catalogue" - King Arthur Flour.
Provided by Chef Glaucia
Categories Lunch/Snacks
Time 1h18m
Yield 10 , 10 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Butter a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Remove the crust from the bread, if you wish. Place them into the greased baking dish, cutting slices in half, as necessary, to completely cover the bottom of the pan.
- Top with half of the cheese, the ham, sliced onion, and the remaining cheese; and the remaining bread.
- Press the sandwiches together.
- Beat the eggs, milk and seasoning together. Pour slowly over the bread.
- Cover and place in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
- About 1 hour before serving, preheat the oven to 400ºF. Mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and grated cheese. Sprinkle over the sandwiches.
- Bake for 42 to 48 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the eggs set.
- Remove from the oven and allow to rest 10 minutes before cutting and serving.
THE ULTIMATE CROQUE MONSIEUR - BAKED FRENCH BISTRO SANDWICH
This is a superb ham and cheese French bistro sandwich slathered in a delightful Bechamel-Soubise cheese sauce that's spiked with pastis, and baked to golden perfection! For a "Croque Madame" variation, serve with a fried or poached egg on top (the egg resembles a ladies hat). Serve hot, garnished with a thyme sprig and a tart little Cornichon pickle on the side, and a drizzle of my violet mustard recipe #400926. Heavenly! Inspired by the Croque Monsieurs served at the famous Tartine's Bakery & Cafe located in San Francisco, California.
Provided by BecR2400
Categories Lunch/Snacks
Time 40m
Yield 4 Croque Monsieur, 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 17
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 4oo degrees F.
- To Make Bechamel Soubise Sauce --.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and sweat the garlic and onions over low heat for 15 minutes, stirring often.
- Add the flour all at once, whisking with a wooden spoon for 2 minutes. Stir in the hot cream and cook, whisking constantly, for 5 minutes or until sauce is thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the salt. pepper, nutmeg, Pastis, 1/4 cup grated Gruyere, fromage blanc, and the Parmesan; set aside.
- To toast the bread, place the slices on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes, turn and bake for another 3 minutes, until toasted.
- To Assemble the Sandwiches --.
- Brush Dijon mustard evenly on one side of half the toasted bread slices. Add a slice of ham to each, sprinkle with half the remaining Gruyere. Top with another slice of toasted bread. Slather the tops with the cheese sauce, and sprinkle with the remaining Gruyere.
- Bake for 5 minutes at 400 degrees F. Turn on the broiler and broil for 3 to 5 minutes, until cheese topping is nicely caramelized. (You want the outside to be crusty and golden brown, and the inside soft and pudding-like).
- Serve hot, garnished with a thyme sprig and a tart little Cornichon pickle on the side. Variation: For a "Croque Madame", serve with a fried or poached egg on top (the egg resembles a ladies hat).
Nutrition Facts : Calories 853, Fat 38.1, SaturatedFat 21.4, Cholesterol 127.8, Sodium 2747.6, Carbohydrate 81, Fiber 4.3, Sugar 4.8, Protein 46.7
Tips:
- Use a good quality bread that is slightly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
- Spread a thin layer of butter or mayonnaise on the bread to prevent it from getting soggy.
- Use a variety of cheeses that melt well, such as cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or Emmental.
- Add some sliced ham, bacon, or other cooked meats to the sandwich for extra flavor.
- If you want a more decadent sandwich, add a layer of béchamel sauce.
- Make sure to preheat your oven to the correct temperature before baking the sandwich.
- Bake the sandwich until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden brown.
Conclusion:
The Croque Monsieur is a classic French sandwich that is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. It is made with simple ingredients that are easily accessible, and it can be customized to your liking. Whether you like it simple or decadent, the Croque Monsieur is a delicious and satisfying sandwich that is sure to please everyone.
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