ingredients

Bechamel Sauce (Variation):

• ¼ cup half-and-half (or whole milk)
• ½ Tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ Tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ tsp onion powder (or a small piece of onion)
• Pinch of salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

ASSEMBLY:

• 2 slices country white bread
• Shredded Gruyère and Swiss cheese blend
• Deli ham slices

directions

Microwave Bechamel Sauce

In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together all Bechamel sauce ingredients except the butter until smooth and free of lumps. Add the butter and microwave for 30 seconds (adjust for room-temperature butter). Remove the bowl, stir thoroughly, then return to the microwave and cook for another 20-30 seconds. Stir vigorously until the sauce reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.

Note: While this microwave method works well for small amounts of sauce, using the stovetop is recommended for larger amounts to achieve optimal results.

Assembly

Choose bread that can withstand the creamy bechamel and cheese filling without being hard or crunchy. White country bread is ideal, but firm brioche or sourdough work well too.

Lay two slices of bread on a flat surface. Spread a generous layer of béchamel sauce on one slice, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Top with ham slices and a generous amount of the cheese blend. Finally, cover the sandwich with the remaining bread slice and spread another thick layer of béchamel sauce on top, followed by another generous sprinkle of cheese.

Bake & Serve

Preheat the toaster oven to 400°F (205°C). Place the assembled sandwich on the upper rack and bake for 6-8 minutes, until golden brown and the cheese is melted. For extra browning on top, broil on high for an additional 1-2 minutes. Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately while hot.

For croque madame

Prepare a fried egg while the sandwich bakes in the oven. Once the Croque Monsieur is golden brown and the cheese is melted, simply place the fried egg on top and serve immediately.