Grilled French Ham and Cheese Sandwich

Introduction

The classic Croque Monsieur, reinvented on the Arteflame grill. This grilled French sandwich delivers crispy, golden perfection with bubbling melted cheese and savory ham. The flat cooktop ensures an even sear, making every bite irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 slices of thick-cut bread (like brioche or sourdough)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 4 slices of high-quality ham
• 4 slices of Gruyère cheese
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp melted butter for grilling
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build.
4. Let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop is evenly hot.

Step 2: Prepare the sandwiches

1. Spread Dijon mustard on two slices of bread.
2. Layer a slice of Gruyère cheese, two slices of ham, and another slice of Gruyère cheese.
3. Spread mayonnaise on the other two slices of bread and place them on top to complete the sandwiches.

Step 3: Butter and grill the sandwiches

1. Spread softened butter on the exterior sides of each sandwich.
2. Place the sandwiches onto the Arteflame flat cooktop near the hotter center zone.
3. Grill for about 3–4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula until golden brown.

Step 4: Melt the cheese

1. Move the sandwiches to a slightly cooler section of the flat cooktop.
2. Grill for an additional 2–3 minutes per side until the cheese is fully melted.

Step 5: Rest and serve

1. Remove the sandwiches from the grill when golden and crispy.
2. Let them rest for 2 minutes before slicing.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips

• Use thick, artisanal bread to prevent the sandwich from getting soggy.
• For extra crispiness, add a light sprinkle of grated cheese on the cooktop before placing the sandwich.
• Keep the sandwiches moving to ensure even cooking.

Variations

• Truffle Croque Monsieur: Add truffle oil or truffle butter for a luxurious twist.
• Spicy Croque: Add a dash of cayenne pepper and a few slices of jalapeño.
• Veggie Croque: Substitute ham with sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions.
• Italian Croque: Use prosciutto and provolone cheese with a touch of basil pesto.
• Double Cheese Croque: Use both Gruyère and Emmental cheeses for extra richness.

Conclusion

Grilling a Croque Monsieur on the Arteflame creates unmatched texture, flavor, and crispiness. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a gourmet snack!

Best pairings

• Pair with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
• Enjoy with a side of mixed greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
• Serve with a hot bowl of French onion soup.