Montreal-Style Croque-Monsieur: A Smoky, Cheesy Classic

This Montreal-style Croque-Monsieur takes the classic French sandwich to a new level with layers of Black Forest ham, smoked meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce. The combination of flavors is rich, smoky, and irresistibly cheesy. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a perfect choice for lunch, brunch, or a casual dinner.

Ingredients for Montreal-Style Croque-Monsieur

For the Béchamel Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter (30 g)
• 2 tbsp unbleached all-purpose flour (15 g)
• 6 tbsp cold milk (90 mL)
• 1 pinch ground Himalayan sea salt

For the Sandwich

• 2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated and divided (200 g; substitutes: Comté, Emmental, or Swiss cheese)
• 3 tbsp milk (45 mL)
• 1/16 tsp freshly grated nutmeg, or to taste
• 1 small pinch ground Himalayan sea salt
• 1/16 tsp freshly ground black pepper, or more to taste (mixed peppercorns recommended)
• 8 slices bread
• 8 large, thin slices Black Forest ham
• 8 large, thin slices Montreal smoked meat

Instructions for Making Montreal-Style Croque-Monsieur

Step 1: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk for 2–3 minutes to remove the raw taste.
2. Gradually add the cold milk: start with 2 tablespoons, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens. Continue adding 1 tablespoon of milk at a time, whisking well after each addition, until the sauce reaches a creamy, spreadable consistency.
3. Transfer the béchamel sauce to a small bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Let the sauce cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Sandwich Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. Set aside.
2. In a small bowl, combine the grated Gruyère cheese, milk, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Spread a thin layer of chilled béchamel sauce on each slice of bread, reserving some sauce for later use.
2. On 4 slices of bread, layer 2 slices of Montreal smoked meat, followed by a portion of the cheese mixture (reserve some for later). Add 2 slices of Black Forest ham on top of the cheese.
3. Place another slice of bread on top of each sandwich. Press gently, then spread a thin layer of béchamel on the top slices.
4. Sprinkle the remaining cheese mixture over the top of the sandwiches and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake and Broil

1. Bake the sandwiches in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
2. Then switch to the broiler and broil for about 3 minutes, or until the cheese topping is golden and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the sandwiches from the oven, slice them in half, and serve immediately.
2. This recipe makes 4 deliciously cheesy sandwiches.

Tips for Perfect Croque-Monsieur

• Cheese Options: For the most authentic flavor, use Gruyère or Comté. However, Swiss or Emmental are excellent substitutes.
• Bread Choice: Use sturdy bread like sourdough, brioche, or a rustic country loaf to hold up to the béchamel and toppings.
• Watch the Broiler: The broiler can brown the cheese quickly, so keep an eye on your sandwiches to prevent overcooking.

This Montreal-style Croque-Monsieur is a flavorful twist on the French classic, combining creamy béchamel, melted Gruyère, and savory smoked meats. Serve it with a crisp green salad or fries for an unforgettable meal!