Croque Monsieur Duck Goat Cheese (Printable Version)
# What You Need:
→ Bread & Spreads
01 -
8 slices country-style bread
02 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
03 -
2 tsp Dijon mustard
→ Filling
04 -
150 g smoked duck breast, thinly sliced
05 -
120 g fresh goat cheese
06 -
2 tsp liquid honey
→ Topping
07 -
80 g grated Emmental or Gruyère cheese
→ Sauce
08 -
200 ml whole milk
09 -
15 g unsalted butter
10 -
15 g all-purpose flour
11 -
Pinch of ground nutmeg
12 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
02 -
In a small saucepan, melt 15 g butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer, stirring until thickened. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
03 -
Lightly toast the bread slices. Spread one side of each slice with softened butter, then a thin layer of Dijon mustard.
04 -
On 4 slices of bread, layer the smoked duck breast, dot with pieces of fresh goat cheese, and drizzle lightly with honey.
05 -
Top the filling with the remaining bread slices, buttered side out.
06 -
Place the sandwiches on the prepared tray. Spoon béchamel sauce over each sandwich and sprinkle generously with grated Emmental or Gruyère.
07 -
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until golden and bubbling. For a crispier top, broil for an extra 1–2 minutes.
08 -
Serve hot, optionally with a side salad.
# Additional Notes:
01 -
Substitute smoked turkey or ham for duck if needed.
02 -
For a vegetarian version, use grilled vegetables instead of duck.
03 -
Pair with a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir or a chilled Beaujolais.