Description
Mini Croque Monsieur with Béchamel is a delightful twist on the classic French sandwich, offering a perfect bite-sized treat that combines melted cheese, savory ham, and a creamy béchamel sauce. Perfect for parties, brunches, or cozy nights in with friends.
Ingredients
Bread
- Sturdy white bread or sourdough
Ham
- High-quality, thinly sliced ham
Cheese
- Gruyère or Emmental cheese
Butter
- Unsalted butter
Flour
- All-purpose flour
Milk
- Whole milk
Nutmeg
- Pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Make the Béchamel Sauce: Start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps, and cook until the sauce thickens. Finally, add a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Lay out slices of bread and spread a layer of béchamel on one side of each slice. On half of the slices, layer the ham and cheese, then top with the remaining bread slices, béchamel side down.
- Toast the Sandwiches: In a skillet, melt a little butter over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. You want them crispy and delicious!
- Serve and Enjoy: Once toasted, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute. Cut each sandwich into quarters for easy eating, and serve warm!
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly sliced cheese and ham will elevate the flavor significantly.
- Don’t Rush the Béchamel: Take your time when making the béchamel to ensure it’s smooth and creamy.
- Experiment with Toasting: Try using a panini press for an even crispier texture.
- Keep it Warm: If serving at a gathering, keep the sandwiches warm in a low oven until ready to serve.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika on top can add a nice touch when serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 mini sandwiches
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Mini Croque Monsieur, Béchamel, French Sandwich, Appetizer, Snack