Save Experience the sophisticated charm of a Parisian café in the comfort of your own kitchen with this Croque Monsieur Casserole. This dish takes the classic French ham and cheese sandwich and transforms it into an elegant, oven-baked masterpiece. By layering buttery bread with savory ham, nutty Gruyère cheese, and a velvety homemade béchamel sauce, you create a meal that is both decadent and deeply satisfying.
Save This recipe is designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life but want a preparation method that is easy to follow. Whether you are hosting guests or simply treating your family to something special, this casserole is sure to become a requested favorite.
Ingredients
- Bread & Dairy: 12 slices white sandwich bread (crusts removed), 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened), 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or Swiss), 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 3 large eggs
- Meats: 8 slices cooked ham (about 200 g)
- Béchamel Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 cups whole milk, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Step 2
- Prepare the béchamel sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1 1/4 cups milk, stirring constantly, until thickened and smooth (about 3–4 minutes). Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Step 3
- Butter one side of each bread slice. Arrange half the bread, buttered side down, in the prepared dish.
- Step 4
- Top with half the ham slices and half the Gruyère. Repeat layers with remaining bread (buttered side down), ham, and cheese.
- Step 5
- Whisk together eggs, 1 cup milk, cream, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Pour evenly over the casserole, pressing gently to soak the bread.
- Step 6
- Pour the béchamel sauce over the top and spread evenly.
- Step 7
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until puffed, golden, and bubbling. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best results, make sure to whisk your béchamel sauce constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Allowing the casserole to rest for a full 10 minutes after it leaves the oven is crucial, as this helps the cheese and custard set, making it much easier to slice into clean, beautiful portions.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For those looking for a different protein, you can easily substitute the ham with slices of roasted turkey. To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach between the bread. For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free sandwich bread.
Serviervorschläge
For a perfectly balanced meal, serve a warm slice of this casserole alongside a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. To truly elevate the experience, pair the dish with a chilled glass of Chardonnay, which beautifully complements the richness of the Gruyère and the creamy béchamel.
Save This Croque Monsieur Casserole brings a touch of bistro elegance to any table. Its rich textures and classic flavors make it a timeless comfort food that is as delightful to serve as it is to eat. Bon appétit!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Add the béchamel sauce just before baking and increase baking time by 5-10 minutes if baking directly from the refrigerator.
- → What cheese can I substitute for Gruyère?
Swiss cheese, Emmental, or Comté are excellent substitutes with similar melting properties and nutty flavor. For a sharper taste, try a combination of white cheddar and Parmesan.
- → How do I make this vegetarian?
Omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or wilted spinach between the bread layers. You can also use vegetarian deli slices for a similar texture.
- → Why remove the bread crusts?
Removing crusts allows the bread to absorb the egg custard more evenly and creates a softer, more uniform texture throughout the casserole. The result is a creamier, more cohesive dish.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, portion cooled casserole into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- → What should I serve with this casserole?
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. Roasted asparagus, fresh fruit, or a light arugula salad with lemon dressing also pair beautifully with this dish.