The croque monsieur is a classic French toasted ham and cheese sandwich that’s been delighting taste buds for over a century. It’s an ideal lunch box treat for kids because it’s warm, cheesy, and easy to eat, making lunchtime both fun and filling. This kid-friendly version tones down strong flavors and adds a creamy béchamel sauce to keep the sandwich moist and delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 slices white or whole wheat sandwich bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (plus extra for toasting)
- 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper (optional)
- 4 slices mild ham (about 4 ounces total)
- 4 slices mild cheddar or Gruyère cheese (about 4 ounces total)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Make the béchamel sauce: In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid browning.
- Slowly add the warmed milk in a steady stream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and season with salt and white pepper. Set aside.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Lightly spread some béchamel sauce on one side of each slice of bread.
- On two slices, layer slices of ham and cheese over the béchamel side. Top with the remaining bread slices, béchamel side down, to form sandwiches.
- Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce over the top of each sandwich, then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
- Cook the croque monsieur: Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat and melt a small amount of butter.
- Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese inside has melted. Lower the heat if the bread browns too quickly.
- Alternatively, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place sandwiches on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before packing for lunch.
Tips
- Substitutions: Use turkey or chicken slices instead of ham for a milder flavor. Mozzarella or mild cheddar are great cheese options if Gruyère isn’t available.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap ham for grilled vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, and add a pinch of herbs to the béchamel for extra flavor.
- Storage: Prepare sandwiches the night before and store them wrapped tightly in parchment paper and then foil to keep them fresh. Avoid refrigerating after cooking as bread may become soggy.
- Common mistakes: Don’t overcook the béchamel sauce or it will become too thick and pasty. Also, use medium heat to toast the sandwiches to prevent burning the bread before the cheese melts.
Serving Suggestions
For a balanced lunch box, pair the croque monsieur with some fresh fruit like apple slices or grapes and a small serving of crunchy veggie sticks such as carrot or cucumber. A small container of yogurt or a fruit smoothie complements the meal well. Include a reusable ice pack to keep everything fresh until lunchtime.
Variations
You can customize this croque monsieur in several kid-friendly ways. For a sweeter twist, add a thin layer of apple sauce inside the sandwich before cooking. For extra nutrition, spread a thin layer of spinach or mashed avocado under the ham. To add a bit of crunch, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs on top before baking. For a simpler version, skip the béchamel and just butter the bread before grilling.
Storage and Reheating
Cooked croque monsieur sandwiches are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sandwich on a baking sheet for 8-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make croque monsieur ahead of time for lunch boxes?
Yes, you can assemble the sandwiches the night before and store them wrapped in the fridge. It’s best to toast or bake them fresh in the morning or at lunchtime to keep the bread crisp.
Is béchamel sauce necessary for a croque monsieur?
Traditional croque monsieur includes béchamel sauce, which adds creaminess and moisture. However, you can simplify the recipe by using just buttered bread and cheese, though the sandwich may be less rich.
What cheese works best for kids?
Mild cheeses like young cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère are excellent choices because they melt well and have a gentle flavor that kids usually enjoy.
Can I freeze croque monsieur sandwiches?
It’s possible to freeze un-toasted assembled sandwiches wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and toast or bake before serving. Avoid freezing after cooking to maintain texture.
How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy in the lunch box?
Make sure the sandwich has cooled completely before packing. Wrapping it in parchment paper or placing it in a vented container helps reduce moisture buildup. Including a small ice pack keeps it fresh without condensation.
Can I add vegetables to make it healthier?
Absolutely! Thin slices of tomato, spinach leaves, or finely shredded carrot can be added inside the sandwich. Just be mindful of moisture content to avoid sogginess.
With these tips and variations, croque monsieur is a versatile, tasty lunch box option that kids will love. It’s quick to prepare, comforting, and easy to customize to suit your child’s preferences.
Enjoy making and packing this classic French favorite for your little ones’ midday meal!
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