: Goat Cheese & Bacon Croque-Monsieur Bake

• 8 slices sandwich bread
• 4 slices ham
• 150 g bacon lardons
• 200 g grated cheese (emmental or mozzarella)
• 8 slices goat cheese (or camembert for a creamier version)
• 100 g thick crème fraîche
• 20 g butter (optional)
• Chopped parsley (optional)

🧁 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F), so it’s ready when you need it. Lay out all eight slices of bread on a work surface. On one side of each slice, spread a thin, even layer of crème fraîche. This will add creaminess and keep the interior moist during baking.

Optional tip: For an extra crisp exterior, lightly butter the opposite side of each slice—the side that will touch the baking tray or be exposed to heat. This step enhances browning and crunch during oven baking.

2️⃣ Add Ham and Lardons

Place one slice of ham on top of the crème fraîche side of four slices of bread. In a dry skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon lardons until they release their fat and take on a light golden colour—this usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes. Once browned, remove the lardons and drain them on a paper towel to remove excess fat. Distribute the cooked lardons evenly over the ham-covered bread slices.

3️⃣ Layer the Cheeses

On top of the ham and lardons, sprinkle a generous handful of grated cheese. This will melt beautifully and bind the filling together. Then, place the remaining four slices of bread on top, crème fraîche side facing inwards, to form the sandwiches.

To finish assembling, spread a small amount of crème fraîche over the top of each sandwich. Sprinkle with additional grated cheese, and finally, place a slice of goat cheese right in the centre of each croque. This not only adds flavour but gives the baked sandwich a signature look once it comes out of the oven.

4️⃣ Bake Until Golden