Few sandwiches are as proudly Parisian as the croque monsieur. It first appeared on café menus in Paris in the early 1900s, and according to popular legend, it was invented almost by accident. What began as a quick café snack soon became a beloved staple of French bistro culture.
Traditionally made with ham and Gruyère cheese layered between buttered bread and baked until bubbling and golden, the croque monsieur is the ultimate example of how French cuisine elevates simple ingredients into something luxurious. In fact, the sandwich became so popular that it even inspired a close relative: the croque madame, crowned with a fried egg on top — said to resemble a lady’s hat.
Today, the croque monsieur remains a timeless café classic — and at French Lunch, it is one of our best-sellers.
Croque Monsieur
Serves: 2
Ingredients:
- 4 slices good-quality toaster bread (white sandwich bread) or 4 slices sourdough
• 2–4 slices cooked ham
• 100–150 g Gruyère or Emmental cheese, grated
• 2–3 tbsp salted butter, melted
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly brush one side of each slice of bread with melted butter.
- Place two slices of bread butter-side up on a baking tray. Add a layer of ham, then a generous handful of grated Gruyère or Emmental. Top with the remaining slices of bread butter-side up. Sprinkle extra cheese on top.
- Bake for 6–7 minutes, until the bread is lightly crisp and the cheese is melted.
- Serve hot, cut in halves or quarters.
Tip: For a vegetarian version, replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms — it’s delicious too!
Recipe Courtesy of: The French Lunch Cafe
349 Kerr Street, Oakville
frenchlunch.ca
