Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 garlic clove , minced
3 tablespoons white onions , finely chopped
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup hot half-and-half cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 teaspoons pastis
8 ounces gruyere cheese , grated ( divided use )
1/3 cup fromage blanc or 1/3 cup mascarpone cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
8 thick slices country French bread , crusts removed
4 teaspoons Dijon mustard
6 ounces applewood-smoked ham , thinly sliced
fresh thyme sprig , for garnish
4 tart little french cornichons , for garnish
The Ultimate Croque Monsieur - Baked French Bistro Sandwich is a classic French sandwich that originated in cafes and bistros in Paris. Croque Monsieur means 'crunchy mister' in French. The sandwich is made with ham and cheese and is usually covered with bechamel sauce. It is then baked or fried until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly. The sandwich is often served with a green salad or fries. The Ultimate Croque Monsieur - Baked French Bistro Sandwich is a creative take on the classic sandwich. In this recipe, the ham is topped with a cheesy white sauce and baked in the oven. The result is a crispy, crunchy, cheesy, and delicious sandwich that is perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 375°F
2.Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
3.Add garlic and onions, and saute until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4.Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes.
5.Gradually whisk in hot half-and-half cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
6.Stir in pastis and cook for 2 minutes.
7.Add half of gruyere cheese, fromage blanc or mascarpone cheese, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted.
8.Spread Dijon mustard on one side of each slice of bread.
9.Top 4 slices of bread with applewood-smoked ham.
10.Spoon cheese sauce over ham.
11.Top with remaining gruyere cheese.
12.Place remaining bread slices on top and press gently.
13.Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes.
14.Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and cornichons. Serve hot.

PROS

The Ultimate Croque Monsieur – Baked French Bistro Sandwich is a cheesy, savory and satisfying sandwich.
It is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner.

It is a creative way of using leftover ham and cheese.

It is easy to make, and the cheese sauce can be made ahead of time.

CONS

The Ultimate Croque Monsieur – Baked French Bistro Sandwich is a high-calorie, high-fat sandwich.

It is not the best choice for people who are on a diet.

The cheese sauce can be tricky to make.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Although not the most healthful sandwich, The Ultimate Croque Monsieur – Baked French Bistro Sandwich contains protein, calcium, and vitamins.
Calcium is essential for bone health, and proteins are necessary for the growth and repair of tissues.
Vitamins are important for maintaining healthy skin and organs. However, it should be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

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