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French Ham & Cheese Sandwich

French Ham & Cheese Sandwich: Comfort Food Bliss at Home

This French Ham & Cheese Sandwich is a delightful comfort food that combines savory ham, creamy béchamel, and nutty gruyère, perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 1 minute
Total Time 26 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Sandwich
  • 2 slices Bread Use thick slices; gluten-free if desired.
  • 4 ounces Ham Sliced ham for easy assembly.
  • 1 cup Gruyère Cheese Grated; Emmental or Swiss as alternatives.
For the Béchamel Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter For the roux.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with whole wheat flour.
  • 1 cup Milk Full-fat or 2%; alternatives include almond or oat milk.
  • 1 pinch Nutmeg Enhances béchamel flavor.
For Extra Flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Optional, adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Skillet
  • spatula
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux.
  2. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until thickened. Season with nutmeg.
  3. Take two thick slices of bread, butter one side each. Spread béchamel on unbuttered side of one slice.
  4. Layer with ham and gruyère cheese, then top with second slice of bread, buttered side up.
  5. Place the sandwich in a preheated skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Flip and cook the other side until crusty and cheese is melted, about 4-5 minutes more.
  7. For extra crispiness, place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
  8. Cut diagonally, serve hot with salad or tomato soup.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Pair with a fresh side salad or tomato soup to enhance the meal and balance the richness.

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