Italian cuisine is renowned for its flavorful ingredients and mouthwatering dishes. When it comes to merging Italian flavors with French classics, the result is nothing short of culinary magic. Enter the Italian Croque-Monsieur, a delightful fusion of French tradition with Italian flair. This indulgent dish combines the richness of a classic Croque-Monsieur with the vibrant flavors of Italy, creating a treat that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
**Ingredients:**
- 8 slices of thick-cut bread (sourdough or country bread works well)
- 8 slices of prosciutto
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:**
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Cook the sauce until it thickens, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. **Assemble the Croque-Monsieur:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay out 4 slices of bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each slice of bread.
- Layer each slice with a slice of prosciutto and a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Place the remaining slices of bread on top to create sandwiches.
3. **Top with Béchamel Sauce:**
- Spoon the prepared Béchamel sauce over each sandwich, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
4. **Bake and Serve:**
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sandwiches are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Conclusion:The Italian Croque-Monsieur is a culinary delight that marries the elegance of French cuisine with the bold flavors of Italy. With its layers of savory prosciutto, gooey mozzarella cheese, and creamy Béchamel sauce, this indulgent dish is perfect for brunch, lunch, or a cozy dinner at home. Impress your family and friends with this irresistible twist on a classic favorite. Buon Appetito!
