Croque Monsieur

Croque Monsieur

Croque Monsieur is a classic French meal that I have been enjoying since I studied abroad and ordered it at a café in France. I started making it myself after watching It’s Complicated when it first came out as I was so inspired by Jane Adler and everything that happened in her kitchen (if you are new around here, that movie inspired this blog.) Typically, Croque Monsieur involves making a bechamel sauce, but I simplified the process by using crème fraiche instead and it worked beautifully.

I like to use truffle butter for an extra special touch, but you can use regular butter if you prefer. I serve this with a petite French salad and glass of white wine for a comforting and luxurious dinner. To make Croque Madame, simply add a fried egg on top for an easy brunch option. 

Ingredients for Croque Monsieur

4 slices of country bread

2 tablespoons truffle butter (or regular butter)

2 tablespoons crème fraiche

1 cup shredded Gruyere 

6 slices deli ham

Dijon mustard for serving

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spread each piece of bread with 1/2 tablespoon butter. Then do the same with the crème fraiche. Place two of the pieces on a baking sheet with the buttered side up. Add 3 slices of ham to each piece of bread. Top each with ¼ cup of shredded Gruyere. Add the additional pieces of bread on top of the cheese, buttered side up. Add the remaining cheese evenly over each slice. Bake for 8 minutes. Turn on the broiler and broil 2-3 minutes until cheese is lightly browned and bubbly.  Serve with Dijon mustard on the side.

Serves 2

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