Croque Monsieur

Ingredients

• 4 slices white bread
• 2 ounces ham, sliced
• 2 ounces Swiss cheese, sliced
• 1 tablespoon butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter for cooking

Instructions

1. Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
2. On the unbuttered side of two bread slices, spread Dijon mustard.
3. Layer ham and Swiss cheese on the mustard-coated sides.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Place remaining bread slices on top, buttered side out, to create two sandwiches.
6. Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat.
7. Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
8. Carefully flip sandwiches and cook the other side for 3-4 minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
9. Remove from skillet and let cool for 1 minute before serving.

Notes

• Use a panini press or sandwich press for even cooking if available
• Slice the sandwich diagonally for traditional presentation
• Press down gently with a spatula while cooking to help cheese melt
• Serve immediately while cheese is warm and melted
• For a Croque Madame variation, top with a fried egg