Description
Easy Mini Croque Monsieur Bites combine layers of rich smoked Gruyere cheese, savory beef ham, and tangy Dijon mustard on white bread, topped with a creamy Parmesan béchamel sauce and baked to golden perfection. These bite-sized French-inspired snacks are perfect for entertaining or a delicious appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread & Filling
- 6 slices white bread
- 12 slices smoked Gruyere cheese
- 3 large slices beef ham
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Béchamel Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra butter for brushing
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Lay out 6 slices of white bread and evenly spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on one side of each slice to add flavor and moisture.
- Assemble Cheese and Ham: On three of the mustard-spread bread slices, place 2 slices of smoked Gruyere cheese each, then add one folded slice of beef ham on top to build the savory core of the bites.
- Make Béchamel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups of milk until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Spoon a generous amount of the warm béchamel sauce over the ham and cheese layered slices. Top each with the remaining bread slices, mustard side down, creating sandwiches.
- Prepare for Baking: Lightly brush the tops of the assembled sandwiches with melted butter to enhance browning. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake: Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until the tops are golden brown and bubbly, indicating the cheese has melted perfectly.
- Finish with Extra Topping: For an extra decadent touch, spoon more béchamel sauce and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top, then briefly broil or bake again until the top is golden and crispy.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for better structure and less sogginess.
- Gruyere cheese can be substituted with Emmental or Swiss cheese for a similar flavor.
- Béchamel sauce can be prepared ahead and reheated gently before assembly.
- If you prefer, use thinly sliced prosciutto instead of beef ham for a different flavor profile.
- Keep a close eye during broiling to prevent burning the cheese topping.
