Croque Monsieur Waffle Sandwiches
Ingredients
- 300g (2 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 10g (2 tsp) baking powder
- 5g (1 tsp) salt
- 4 large eggs
- 500ml (2 cups) whole milk
- 100g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted
- 200g (7 oz) Gruyère cheese, grated
- 200g (7 oz) ham, thinly sliced
- 30ml (2 tbsp) Dijon mustard
- 50g (1/4 cup) mayonnaise
- 5g (1 tsp) ground black pepper
- 50g (1/4 cup) finely chopped chives (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Waffle Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add milk and melted butter, mixing until fully combined. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring with a whisk until smooth. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to ensure maximum fluffiness.
Step 2: Cook the Waffles
Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pour the batter into the center of the preheated waffle iron, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Close the lid and cook for 4–6 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy. Transfer the waffles to a baking sheet to keep warm in an oven preheated to 95°C (200°F) while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the grated Gruyère cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and ground black pepper. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and silky. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
Lay out one waffle and spread a layer of cheese sauce on one side. Add slices of ham followed by another generous layer of cheese sauce. Top with another waffle, creating a sandwich. Repeat this assembly process with the remaining waffles.
Step 5: Heat the Sandwiches
In a frying pan over medium heat, add a small amount of butter. Place each assembled waffle sandwich into the pan, cooking for about 3–4 minutes on each side until the cheese is gooey and the waffles are toasted and warmed through.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once heated through, transfer the sandwiches to serving plates. Garnish with finely chopped chives for an added touch of freshness and flavor. Serve your Croque Monsieur Waffle Sandwiches hot with additional cheese sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.
Conclusion
You’ve successfully crafted a sophisticated yet fun dish that’s sure to impress and satisfy any crowd. These Croque Monsieur Waffle Sandwiches capture the comforting essence of the French classic while adding an exciting twist. Perfect for sharing, they bring together the best of crispy waffles, savory ham, and luscious cheese. As you’ve discovered, a few thoughtful ingredients and steps can elevate everyday meals into something extraordinary. Enjoy making these sandwiches your new trademark dish!
