A Sophisticated Twist on a Classic French Sandwich

This elegant twist on the traditional Croque Monsieur uses puff pastry to elevate the classic French sandwich into a sophisticated delight. The rich flavors of ham, Gruyère cheese, and béchamel sauce are encased in a golden, flaky pastry that adds a beautiful texture and taste.

Bon appétit!

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 1 package of sliced ham, 12-14 slices
• 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 provolone slices
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp butter (plus ¼ cup for wash)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (plus more for the puff pastry)
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1/8 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tsp thyme chopped (can use 1 tsp dried thyme)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add 2tbsp. flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until the mixture forms a roux. Now add 1/8 tsp nutmeg, 1/8 tsp garlic powder Gradually add 1 ½ cup milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the pan from the heat, add the parm cheese and 1/2 cup of the gruyere. Mix until it melted and set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Puff Pastry

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out each sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Cut the puff pastry in half. On half of the puff pastry spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard. Leave an edge clean of any ingredients. Then distribute 2-4  slices of ham.

Add a slice of provolone, and top with 3-4 for more slices of ham. Spread a generous amount of the prepared béchamel sauce over the ham and cheese. Sprinkle thyme on top.

Step 4: Seal the Pastries

Fold the top puff pastry pieces over the layered ingredients, matching the edges of each bottom piece. Press the edges together and crimp with a fork to seal. Brush the tops with 1/4 cup melted butter for a golden finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the sealed pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and crisp.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving. Cut into slices.

Reheat the be béchamel sauce and pour into a serving ramekin.  Pair with a side salad or enjoy as a standalone dish. The combination of flaky puff pastry, savory ham, and creamy béchamel sauce will make this Croque Monsieur a memorable meal.