Rachael Rays Croque Monsieur

Rachael Ray’s Croque Monsieur puts a modern twist on a classic French bistro staple, combining layers of perfectly toasted bread, savory ham, and rich, melty Gruyère cheese. This elevated grilled cheese masterpiece features a luxurious homemade béchamel sauce, infused with Dijon mustard and a hint of nutmeg for added depth of flavor. Crisped to golden perfection in a skillet and finished under the broiler with bubbling cheese on top, this indulgent sandwich is perfect for brunch, lunch, or an ultimate comfort-food dinner. Quick to prepare in just 35 minutes, it’s a decadent yet approachable recipe that transforms simple pantry staples into a gourmet delight.

Nutriscore Rating: 48/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 1 cup Whole milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1.5 cups Grated Gruyère cheese
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 0.125 teaspoon Nutmeg (optional)
• 8 slices White sandwich bread
• 4 ounces Thinly sliced ham
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter, softened

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.

Step 2

Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture forms a smooth paste, but do not let it brown.

Step 3

Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Step 4

Stir in the Dijon mustard, 1 cup of grated Gruyère cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Mix until the cheese is melted and smooth, then remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5

Preheat the broiler on your oven.

Step 6

Lay out 4 slices of bread on a clean surface. Spread a small amount of the béchamel sauce on each slice.

Step 7

Top each slice with 1 ounce (or to preference) of thinly sliced ham.

Step 8

Sprinkle a small handful of the remaining Gruyère cheese on top of the ham, then cover each with the remaining slices of bread to create sandwiches.

Step 9

Spread the softened butter on the outsides of each sandwich.

Step 10

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the sandwiches and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 11

Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and spoon the remaining béchamel sauce over the top of each sandwich.

Step 12

Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese across the top of the sandwiches.

Step 13

Broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the tops are bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 14

Remove from the oven, let cool for 1-2 minutes, and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	826.7 grams (826.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2116

Total Fat 126.50g	162%
Saturated Fat 73.60g	368%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.30g
Cholesterol 398mg	133%
Sodium 5274mg	229%
Total Carbohydrate 134.50g	49%
Dietary Fiber 8.20g	29%
Total Sugars 30.50g
Protein 94.80g	190%

Vitamin D 143IU	717%
Calcium 2063mg	159%
Iron 10mg	56%
Potassium 1070mg	23%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.4%

Protein: 18.4%

Carbs: 26.2%