Indulge in the smoky richness of Smoked Salmon Croques, featuring creamy bechamel sauce and melted Gruyère cheese, all layered between slices of rustic bread. This dish, with its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation, makes for an unforgettable meal. Perfect for brunch or a special occasion, these croques can also be transformed into Croque Madame by topping with a fried egg. Whether served on wooden boards or accompanied by a green salad, these sandwiches are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Smoked Salmon Croques Recipe
- Elegant and Flavorful: A sophisticated twist on a classic croque with smoked salmon.
- Versatile Options: Make it a Croque Madame by adding fried eggs.
- Perfect for Entertaining: A great choice for brunch, lunch, or special gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Bechamel Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1¼ cups whole milk
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Croques
- 8 slices rustic country bread or sourdough
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 6 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
- 1½ cups Gruyère cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 4 eggs (for Croque Madame variation)
- Fresh chives or dill, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bechamel Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until the roux is smooth.
- Gradually add the milk while whisking. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Season with nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Assemble the Croques
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lightly butter one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard.
- Layer smoked salmon on four slices, followed by a handful of grated Gruyère.
- Add a spoonful of bechamel sauce over the cheese and top with the remaining bread slices, butter side up.
3. Cook the Croques
- Place the sandwiches on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the bread turns golden and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
4. Croque Madame Variation (Optional)
- While the croques are baking, fry eggs in butter over medium heat.
- Cook until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny.
- Place a fried egg on top of each croque for the Croque Madame variation.
5. Plating and Garnish
- For a rustic touch, serve the croques on wooden boards or stone plates.
- Garnish with fresh chives or dill, and sprinkle with cracked black pepper.
- Add a lemon wedge on the side for a burst of citrusy freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Croques
- Natural Lighting: Serve in natural light to highlight the golden bread and melted cheese.
- Rustic Presentation: Use wooden boards or slate plates for a visually stunning effect.
- Vibrant Garnishes: Balance the richness with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a side salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad or sliced cucumber and radish for freshness.
- Enjoy with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the smoked salmon.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Sodium: 590mg
More Recipes to Explore
- Classic Croque Monsieur: The ultimate French ham and cheese sandwich.
- Smoked Salmon Tartines: An elegant open-faced sandwich perfect for brunch.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: A flavorful seafood dish to elevate your meal.
Final Thoughts on Smoked Salmon Croques Recipe
This Smoked Salmon Croques recipe offers the perfect balance of rich flavors, creamy textures, and elegant presentation. Whether you’re hosting brunch or treating yourself to a delicious lunch, this dish is sure to impress. Add a fried egg for a Croque Madame twist, and enjoy every bite of this luxurious creation.