Go Back
–+ servings
French Ham & Cheese Sandwich

Irresistibly Delicious French Ham & Cheese Sandwich Recipe

No ratings yet
This French Ham & Cheese Sandwich is a delightful experience that combines savory ham, rich gruyère cheese, and a creamy béchamel sauce in a crispy delight.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: French
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bread
  • 4 slices Fresh Bread Sourdough or French bread recommended
For the Filling
  • 4 ounces Ham Savory goodness; can substitute with smoked turkey or sautéed mushrooms
  • 4 ounces Gruyère Cheese Can substitute with Emmental or Swiss cheese
For the Béchamel Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Essential for a rich béchamel
  • 4 tablespoons Flour Can use gluten-free flour if desired
  • 2 cups Milk 2% milk recommended for a lighter option
  • 1 pinch Nutmeg Optional; adds warmth
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Optional; adds a tangy twist
For Grilling
  • 2 tablespoons Additional Butter For greasing the bread while grilling

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Skillet
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add 4 tablespoons of flour, mixing until smooth. Gradually add 2 cups of milk, stirring continuously until thickened, then season with nutmeg and Dijon mustard if desired.
  2. Butter one side of each slice of fresh bread generously. On the unbuttered side, layer slices of ham and shredded gruyère cheese. Add a dollop of béchamel sauce on top, then place another slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Grill the sandwiches for about 5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, gently pressing down with a spatula.
  4. Flip the sandwiches and grill the other side for another 5 minutes until golden brown and cheese is melting. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes for a bubbly top.
  5. Remove from skillet, let rest for a minute, cut diagonally, and serve hot. Pair with a fresh salad or tomato soup.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Customize the ham and cheese as per dietary preferences. Make béchamel sauce in advance to expedite cooking time.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!