Description
Crafting these Mini Croque Monsieur with Béchamel sandwiches is akin to creating a culinary masterpiece that blends French tradition with a bite-sized twist.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 slices white sandwich bread
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
- 4 oz thinly sliced ham
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Dijon mustard, for spreading
Instructions
- Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium flame. Add in the flour and whisk continuously for about a minute to form a smooth roux. Gradually incorporate the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens into a creamy béchamel, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Finally, enhance the flavor with a hint of nutmeg along with salt and white pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Take each slice of white sandwich bread and use a serrated knife to trim off the crusts. Slice each piece into quarters, yielding neat, bite-sized squares. Lightly coat one side of each bread square with softened butter while the opposite side gets a thin spread of Dijon mustard. This layer adds a delightful tangy contrast to the creamy interior.
- Lay out half the prepared bread squares with their mustard side facing up. Generously layer each with thin slices of ham followed by a sprinkle of Gruyère cheese. Top with the remaining bread pieces, mustard side down, to form the minis.
- Arrange the sandwiches on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle each one with the reserved béchamel sauce, then finish with the remaining Gruyère and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a decadent finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese turns a golden hue and irresistibly gooey.
Notes
For the best results, use fresh and high-quality ham and cheese. Artisan bread can also elevate the flavors. The béchamel can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply reheat before using in the recipe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 5 g