I remember the first time I tried a Croque Monsieur. I was at a small French café in Paris, seated by the window with the warm sun spilling in. I watched as the staff assembled the dish, the cheese melting perfectly, the bread golden and crisp. It felt like the epitome of French comfort food. Since that moment, I’ve been hooked. There’s something magical about that crispy, cheesy sandwich that just makes everything feel right. And no one does it better than Mary Berry. She’s known for her simple but elegant recipes, and her Croque Monsieur is no exception. It’s straightforward to make, and the flavors are just exquisite.
I can still remember making this dish for the first time, my kitchen filled with the smell of melted cheese and toasty bread. It’s a dish that’s perfect for brunch or a light dinner, and every time I make it, I’m taken back to that little Parisian café.
Mary Berry Croque Monsieur Recipe
Mary Berry’s version of Croque Monsieur doesn’t complicate things. The recipe focuses on quality ingredients and a bit of technique to get that melt-in-your-mouth cheese, crispy bread, and savory ham. It’s a simple yet luxurious meal.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and how to do it:
Ingredients Needed
- 8 slices of white bread (I prefer using a good-quality thick-cut bread, something that can hold up to the filling)
- 2 tablespoons of butter (unsalted, for spreading)
- 8 slices of cooked ham (I love using a nice honey-cooked ham for extra flavor)
- 8 slices of Gruyère cheese (the real star of the show, it melts beautifully)
- 3 tablespoons of Dijon mustard (for that little zing)
- 1 cup of milk (whole milk works best for a creamy sauce)
- 1 tablespoon of plain flour (for the béchamel sauce)
- A pinch of salt and pepper (to taste)
Equipment Needed
- Frying pan (for toasting the bread)
- Saucepan (for the béchamel sauce)
- Grater (for the Gruyère cheese)
- Baking tray (for finishing in the oven)
- Butter knife (for spreading the butter and mustard)
How To Make Mary Berry Croque Monsieur?
When I first made this, it felt like a mini celebration in my own kitchen. The process is surprisingly simple, but when everything comes together, it feels like you’ve done something special.
- Prepare the bread: Start by spreading butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will help you achieve that golden crispiness. Next, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the opposite side of four slices.
- Layer the filling: On top of the mustard side, layer two slices of ham, followed by a slice of Gruyère cheese. Then, place the remaining slices of bread on top to create the sandwiches.
- Make the béchamel sauce: In a saucepan, melt a little butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about a minute to get rid of the raw flour taste. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper. Once the sauce is thick, remove it from the heat.
- Assemble the Croque Monsieur: Place your sandwiches on a baking tray. Pour the béchamel sauce over the top of each sandwich. Then sprinkle generously with grated Gruyère.
- Grill the sandwiches: Place the tray under a hot grill (broiler) for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. You want it to be crispy on the edges and gooey in the center.
Recipe Variations
As much as I love the classic, I’ve played around with a few variations over the years. Here are some ideas:
- Add a fried egg: A Croque Madame is essentially the same as the Croque Monsieur, but with a fried egg on top. The runny yolk adds richness and a little extra indulgence.
- Use different cheese: Gruyère is traditional, but you can also experiment with Emmental, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses.
- Swap the ham: If you’re not a fan of ham, try using turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian alternative like roasted vegetables or mushrooms.
- Add herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary in the béchamel sauce gives the dish a lovely aromatic flavor.
What Goes Well With Mary Berry Croque Monsieur?
This dish is hearty on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, here are some things that pair beautifully:
- Simple salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the Croque Monsieur.
- French fries or potato wedges: You can’t go wrong with crispy fries as a side.
- Pickles or chutney: Something tangy like a dill pickle or sweet chutney balances the richness of the sandwich.
- A glass of white wine: A light, crisp wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with the dish.
What I Have Learnt
Over the years, I’ve learned a few key lessons when making Mary Berry’s Croque Monsieur.
- Don’t rush the béchamel: It’s tempting to hurry through the sauce, but taking the time to make it creamy and thick makes all the difference in the final dish.
- Quality ingredients matter: The bread, the cheese, the ham-they all contribute to the end result. Don’t settle for the cheap stuff.
- Grilling time is crucial: Keep an eye on it while it’s under the grill. You want that perfect balance of crispy bread and melty cheese.
Making this dish is not just about following a recipe-it’s about creating something comforting and enjoyable. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of the joy that comes from simple meals shared with good company.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need To Make Mary Berry’s Croque Monsieur?
To make Mary Berry’s Croque Monsieur, you will need the following ingredients: white bread, butter, Dijon mustard, cooked ham, grated Gruyère cheese, grated Emmental cheese, milk, flour, and a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning. The recipe also calls for a béchamel sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and cheese.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Cheese For Mary Berry’s Croque Monsieur?
While Mary Berry’s recipe suggests using Gruyère and Emmental, you can substitute these cheeses with similar types like Swiss cheese, cheddar, or mozzarella. However, Gruyère and Emmental provide the traditional creamy texture and sharp flavor that are characteristic of a classic Croque Monsieur.
Can I Make Mary Berry’s Croque Monsieur Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare Mary Berry’s Croque Monsieur ahead of time. Assemble the sandwich, including the béchamel sauce, and cover it. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and bubbling.