Croque Monsieur Façon Pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

1. Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the flour: Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is lightly golden and bubbly.
3. Add the milk: Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Season: Add the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Prepare the bread: Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. Place half of the slices, buttered side down, on a cutting board.
2. Add the mustard: Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (if using) on the unbuttered side of the bread slices.
3. Layer the ingredients: Top each slice with a slice of ham and a generous sprinkle of grated Gruyère cheese.
4. Top with bread: Place the remaining slices of bread on top, buttered side up, to form sandwiches.

Step 3: Cook the Sandwiches

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brown the sandwiches: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese is slightly melted. Transfer the sandwiches to a baking sheet.

Step 4: Add the Pizza Toppings

1. Add the tomato sauce: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the top of each sandwich.
2. Add the cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the tomato sauce.
3. Bake: Place the sandwiches in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Remove the sandwiches from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil.
2. Serve hot: Serve the Croque Monsieur Façon Pizza hot, with a side salad or your favorite side dish.

Tips for Perfect Croque Monsieur Façon Pizza

1. Use quality ingredients: High-quality ham, cheese, and bread will enhance the flavor and texture of the sandwiches.
2. Don’t skip the béchamel: The béchamel sauce adds a rich, creamy element that is essential to the dish.
3. Customize toppings: Feel free to add other pizza toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or olives to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Croque Monsieur Façon Pizza is a delightful and unique dish that combines the best of a classic Croque Monsieur and a pizza. This recipe ensures a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making and savoring this mouthwatering dish with your family and friends!