Competition-Inspired Cooking with Your Kids: Croque Monsieur 101

Make a recipe inspired by a recent cooking challenge on Rachael Ray's Kids Cook-Off.

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croque monsieur

©food network 2015

food network 2015

The Sandwich King, Jeff Mauro, was the guest judge for this week’s episode of Rachael Ray’s Kids Cook-Off. And, of course, our contestants had to win him over with amazing sandwiches during the first round. We were so sad to see Sabrina go home with her first attempt ever at a croque monsieur sandwich — but so impressed that she took a chance! If you’re like Sabrina, and never made this classic French sandwich, then here’s a little 101.

A croque monsieur is essentially a ham and cheese sandwich that is topped with a bechamel sauce and Gruyère cheese and broiled until golden brown. And if you top it with a fried egg, your monsieur becomes a madame!

Sabrina tried toasting her sandwiches in the oven, but her bottom bun ended up soggy. We suggest griddling your sandwich in a skillet (just like regular grilled cheese), then topping it with the sauce and cheese, and then broiling it.

Follow our pictogram and make your own monsieur or madame.

Photo by Heather Ramsdell

And then there were three! Tune next Monday at 8|7 c to see who wins $20,000 and his or her very own Web series.

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