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Crispy Easy Croque Monsieur Recipe Perfect Stovetop Ham Grilled Cheese

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A quick and easy stovetop Croque Monsieur that delivers a crispy crust and melty, savory center using simple ingredients like ham, Gruyère cheese, and Dijon mustard.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 slices thick white sandwich bread or sturdy country loaf
  • 4 ounces (115 grams) thinly sliced ham (stovetop ham or Black Forest ham)
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons (30 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • Optional: freshly ground black pepper or a sprinkle of nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Gather your ingredients: 4 slices of bread, 4 ounces of sliced ham, 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese, 2 tablespoons softened butter, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard.
  2. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice; this will be the outside that touches the pan.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the shredded Gruyère with the Dijon mustard and stir until evenly mixed.
  4. Place two slices of bread on a clean surface, butter-side down. Spread half of the cheese-mustard mixture evenly on each slice.
  5. Layer the ham evenly over the cheese, then top with the remaining cheese-mustard blend.
  6. Cover with the other two slices of bread, butter-side up.
  7. Heat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-low heat for about 2 minutes.
  8. Carefully place one sandwich in the skillet. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on the first side, pressing gently with a spatula to promote even browning.
  9. Once the bottom is golden and crispy, carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side for another 4 to 5 minutes, pressing gently.
  10. Repeat for the second sandwich if making two at once, or keep the first warm wrapped in foil.
  11. Slice the sandwich diagonally and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Cook over medium-low heat to allow cheese to melt fully without burning the bread. Press gently when flipping to keep sandwich compact. Use softened butter on bread for a golden, crispy crust. If bread browns too fast, lower heat and cover pan loosely.

Nutrition

Keywords: Croque Monsieur, grilled cheese, ham sandwich, stovetop sandwich, easy recipe, comfort food, quick lunch