Chef J. – The Culinary Evangelist

For the bechamel

1. Melt the butter in a medium sauce [an over medium heat.

2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Slowly whisk in the milk and cook for 3 minutes more, until sauce thickens.

4. Remove from the heat and whisk in the mustard and nutmeg. Season to taste with salt,

For assembly

1. Preheat the oven to broil.

2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.

3. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Place four slices of bread, butter-side down, into the skillet.

4. Add a layer of grueyere on each slice of bread, then layer with ham, and finally, top with another slice of bread, butter-side up.

5. Cook the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown. Carefully flip each sandwich over, pour a generous amount of bechamel over each, then top with remaining gruyere.

6. Immediately place under the broiler and cook for 1-2 minutes or until cheese is golden and bubbly.

7. Serve immediately.

8. For Croque Madame, add a fried egg to the top of the sandwich after removing from oven, just before serving.