Classic Croque Monsieur – The Ultimate French Grilled Cheese

#### Directions:

1. **Make the Béchamel Sauce**:
– In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Be careful not to let it brown.
– Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens to the consistency of heavy cream (about 5-7 minutes).
– Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using), then remove from heat and set aside.

2. **Assemble the Sandwich**:
– Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side, spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce. Top with a slice of ham and a generous amount of grated Gruyère cheese.
– Place another slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out, to form a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining bread, ham, and cheese to make 4 sandwiches.

3. **Grill the Sandwiches**:
– Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the remaining butter and let it melt.
– Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Press gently with a spatula to ensure an even crisp on both sides.

4. **Optional Finishing Touch**:
– For an extra layer of indulgence, spoon a bit of the béchamel sauce on top of each sandwich during the final minute of grilling, allowing it to melt into the bread before serving.

5. **Serve**:
– Once your sandwiches are golden brown and the cheese is melted to perfection, transfer them to plates and serve hot. Pair with a simple green salad or a side of crispy fries for the ultimate French bistro experience.

### Why You’ll Love Croque Monsieur

The *Croque Monsieur* offers the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors. The toasted bread provides a satisfying crunch, while the gooey cheese and delicate ham create a deliciously rich filling. The béchamel sauce adds creaminess, making every bite a little bit indulgent without being too heavy. Whether you’re enjoying it for brunch, lunch, or a comforting dinner, this French classic will impress anyone who tries it.

For an elevated version, add a fried egg on top, transforming your *Croque Monsieur* into a *Croque Madame*—a dish that is just as iconic and beloved.

### Final Thoughts

The *Croque Monsieur* may have started as a humble café snack, but today it’s a symbol of French culinary ingenuity and comfort. Its combination of simple ingredients crafted with care results in a sandwich that feels like an elegant indulgence. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a grilled cheese, why not make it *Croque Monsieur*? You’ll be transporting yourself straight to a Parisian café in no time. Bon appétit!