Mary Berry’s croque monsieur is ‘quick and simple’ sandwich to impress brunch guests (Image: Getty)
’s “quick and easy” take on the croque monsieur makes for the ultimate to offer guests.
This French classic combines layers of smoky ham, rich Gruyère cheese, and a creamy, homemade cheese sauce, all sandwiched between perfectly toasted bread.
While it may be uncomplicated to prepare, this dish looks sophisticated and is so comforting it’s impossible to resist.
The from Mary’s cookbook Simple Comforts takes only 10 minutes to prepare, with a further 15 minutes cooking time.
Once the croque monsieur has cooled to room temperature it can be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. It will then keep in the fridge for up to three days.
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Mary Berry’s ‘quick and easy’ take on the croque monsieur makes for the ultimate breakfast sandwich (Image: Getty)
Mary Berry’s croque monsieur recipe
Ingredients
50g butter
Four medium slices of white bread
Two tbsp Dijon mustard
4 thin slices of smoked ham
100g Gruyère cheese, coarsely grated
15g plain flour
150ml hot full-fat milk
Freshly grated nutmeg
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
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Mary Berry’s croque monsieur recipe offers a quick and simple way to create an impressive breakfast (Image: Getty)
Method
Start by preheating your grill to a medium heat. Meanwhile, cover a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Next, flip the bread slices over and spread Dijon mustard on the unbuttered sides. On two of the slices, add two pieces of ham each and sprinkle 50g of grated cheese on top. Place the remaining bread slices, with the buttered side facing up, to complete the sandwiches.
In a saucepan, melt the remaining butter. Stir in the flour for a few seconds to create a roux. Slowly pour in the hot milk while whisking constantly. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens.
Once it has reached a creamy consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in a pinch of nutmeg along with 25g of cheese. Season to taste, creating a rich and creamy cheese sauce.
Spread the cheese sauce generously on top of both sandwiches and top with the remaining 25g of cheese. Place the sandwiches under the grill for about five minutes, or until the cheese is melted, and the top is golden and bubbling.
Allow the sandwiches to cool slightly before slicing them in half. Serve immediately and savour the rich, cheesy goodness of your homemade Croque Monsieur.