Village Tavern’s Ham & Cheese

PARISIAN GRILLED HAM AND CHEESE
Serves 1

INGREDIENTS

2 Tbsp. Butter, unsalted
2 Each 2 White Bread, sliced
2 oz. wt. Ham, sliced
As Needed Bechamel Sauce (Recipe Follows)
2 oz. wt. Gruyere Cheese, shredded

PROCEDURE

Preheat oven to 400 F degrees.
Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and brush with melted butter.
On a work surface, place bread slices in a single layer and spread each one evenly to the edges with béchamel.
Divide ham among four of the slices, trimming it if necessary so it is within 1/4 inch of the edges. Top all eight slices with equal amounts of cheese, spreading it evenly to within ¼ inch of edges.
Place four bread slices with béchamel and cheese, cheese side up, on top of slices layered with ham.
Transfer sandwiches, cheese side up, onto sheet pan. Bake until Gruyere cheese topping is melted and golden brown, 10 to 15 minutes.
Serve.

BECHAMEL SAUCE

INGREDIENTS

3 Tbsp. Butter
¼ CUP All Purpose Flour
3 Cups Milk, whole
Pinch Nutmeg
To Taste Kosher Salt
To Taste White Pepper

PROCEDURE

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter and whisk in the flour until blended but not colored.
Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 10 minutes.
Season to taste with nutmeg, Kosher salt and white pepper.
Reserve and refrigerate or use immediately.