Baked Croque Monsieur Recipe

Ingredients for Baked Croque Monsieur

• White Bread
• Cheddar Cheese
• 8 ounces thinly sliced deli ham
• 1/2 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• Herbs
• Salt
• Panko Breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Parmesan Cheese

How to Make Baked Croque Monsieur

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. Remove crusts from 1 loaf (about 1 pound) of bread, if desired. Cut bread into slices to fit the pan, creating an even bottom layer.
3. Sprinkle half (about 4 ounces) of the grated Gruyère cheese over the bread.
4. Layer 8 ounces thinly sliced deli ham over the cheese.
5. Thinly slice 1/2 medium yellow onion and distribute evenly over the ham.
6. Top with remaining 4 ounces of Gruyère cheese.
7. Arrange the remaining bread slices on top of the cheese, creating a second layer.
8. Gently press down on the bread to compact the layers.
9. In a medium bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
10. Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring all layers are moistened.
11. Cover the baking pan and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
12. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese.
13. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
14. Bake for 42-48 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
15. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before cutting and serving. Enjoy!