Did you ever think a sandwich could take a steamy trip to casserole land? Well, buckle up, because we're about to show you how to turn the classic croque monsieur into a deliciously layered masterpiece that's perfect for a cozy night in. Picture buttery croissants stacked with silky béchamel, mouthwatering prosciutto, and that ooey-gooey Gruyère cheese that just melts your heart (and your taste buds). As it bakes, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma that might just set the mood for a romantic evening. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let's whip up something that'll impress without the fuss, leaving you both satisfied and maybe just a little smitten.
Recipe

Croque Monsieur Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that's perfect for any meal of the day. It's a twist on the classic French sandwich, made into a satisfying casserole that can easily feed a crowd. This dish combines the savory flavors of prosciutto or good quality ham, with the richness of a homemade béchamel sauce, all layered between buttery croissants and topped with melted Gruyère or Swiss cheese. The addition of eggs and milk in the filling adds an extra level of creamy goodness, making it a delightful culinary experience.
To begin preparing the Croque Monsieur Casserole, slice 7 large day-old croissants in half lengthwise and arrange the bottom halves in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Brush each piece with a generous layer of béchamel sauce, which is made by melting 2-5 tablespoons of butter in a pan, whisking in 2-5 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and slowly adding 1 1⁄2 – 2 cups of milk until the mixture thickens. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Layer the torn pieces of prosciutto or ham and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese over them, reserving some cheese for later use. Replace the croissant tops and set aside. This casserole can be served as a main course or paired with a side dish like Crispy Air Fryer Frozen Tater Tots.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 1-2 cups of milk, and your choice of seasonings before pouring the mixture over the assembled croissants. Cover the prepared casserole with a towel or plastic wrap and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, or refrigerate it overnight for a more pronounced taste. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F and remove any covering from the dish. Bake the casserole uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Once done, serve it immediately while it's still hot, garnishing with chopped tomatoes and fresh basil if you desire. For a Croque Madame version, consider topping it with a fried egg.
While preparing this dish, there are a few tips to keep in mind to guarantee the best outcome. Day-old croissants are recommended because they hold up better when soaked in the egg mixture compared to fresh ones. If your béchamel sauce comes out too thick, you can thin it by adding a little more milk to achieve your desired consistency. Keep an eye on the casserole while baking; if it starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time to prevent burning. With these tips and instructions, you'll be able to create a delightful Croque Monsieur Casserole that's sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, you can easily double this recipe if you are planning to serve a larger group at a gathering.
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The Croque Monsieur Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic French bistro sandwich, offering the same rich flavors in a comforting, make-ahead dish that's perfect for brunch gatherings or family dinners. Originating in Parisian cafés around the early 20th century, the traditional Croque Monsieur features layers of ham and melted cheese, often enhanced with a creamy béchamel sauce, all nestled between crispy, buttered bread. The addition of a poached or lightly fried egg on top transforms it into a croque madame, adding another layer of flavor. This casserole version captures the essence of the original with its layers of flaky croissants or hearty French bread, savory hams, and melted cheese, all baked into a sumptuous, crowd-pleasing bake that brings a touch of France to your table. Whether you're hosting friends or looking for an easy weekend meal, this dish is adaptable and can be prepared in advance, much like air fryer twice baked potatoes which also offer a convenient and customizable option for side dishes.
Whether you're hosting friends or looking for an easy weekend meal, this dish is adaptable, allowing you to prepare it in advance, and customize it to your liking.
Final_Thoughts

When it comes to putting together the perfect brunch or family dinner, you can't go wrong with this delicious Croque Monsieur Casserole. It's a fantastic dish because of its sheer versatility. Whether you're feeding a small group or a large crowd, this casserole can easily be adjusted to meet your needs. The custard mixture is seasoned with nutmeg, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard to create a fragrant egg custard that ties the dish together.
I love the customization options it offers—switching out cheeses or meats lets you tailor the flavor to anyone's liking. The combination of creamy béchamel, melty Gruyère, and savory prosciutto creates a flavor profile that's truly irresistible. For an additional appetizer, consider serving Chicken Bacon Ranch Wonton Cups, which offer a satisfying crunch and familiar flavors in an elegant presentation.
Plus, preparing this ahead of time makes it incredibly convenient. Trust me, once you've tried it, you'll appreciate how it effortlessly combines ease and elegance in every bite. Give it a try—your guests will thank you
Conclusion
And there you have it—the Croque Monsieur Casserole, your ticket to a cozy date night right at home. Quick to whip up and oh-so-satisfying, this dish takes a beloved classic and turns it into a shareable piece of comfort. It's the perfect excuse to get a little messy while you dig into those cheesy layers and crispy toast. So grab a fork, don't forget the wine, and let those flavors work their magic. Who said romance has to be complicated? This dish is simple, delicious, and just a bit indulgent—ideal for sparking some fun while you and your partner feast like it's date night in Paris. Enjoy!