Croque Big Daddy Recipe

Name: Croque Big Daddy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus 2 tablespoons softened; 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely diced; 1/2 teaspoon seafood seasoning (recommended: Old Bay); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 4 cups shredded Gruyere; 1 cup shredded mozzarella; 4 (1/2-inch) thick slices good quality maple baked ham; 8 thick-cut slices hearty white bread; Preheat a grill pan over medium-low heat

Servings: persons

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus 2 tablespoons softened
1 jalapeno, seeded and finely diced
1/2 teaspoon seafood seasoning (recommended: Old Bay)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 cups shredded Gruyere
1 cup shredded mozzarella
4 (1/2-inch) thick slices good quality maple baked ham
8 thick-cut slices hearty white bread
Preheat a grill pan over medium-low heat

1
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the 3 tablespoons butter, jalapeno and seafood seasoning.
2
Cook until the jalapeno begins to soften, about 3 minutes.
3
Next, add the flour and stir to combine and make a blond roux, about 3 minutes.
4
Add the milk and season with salt and pepper.
5
Stir in the Gruyere and mozzarella and turn the heat to low.
6
Cook for 2 minutes, and then cover to keep warm.
7
Place the ham on the grill and cook until well marked and warmed, about 2 minutes per side.
8
Spread 1 tablespoon softened butter on one side of the bread slices and place on the grill, about 2 minutes.
9
Spread the remaining 1 tablespoon softened butter on the other side and flip, cooking about 2 minutes more.
10
Evenly divide the cheese sauce on 4 slices bread and top with 1 slice ham.
11
Place the remaining 4 bread slices on top to create a sandwich.

419

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 11 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus 2 tablespoons softened, 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely diced, 1/2 teaspoon seafood seasoning (recommended: Old Bay), 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, and more.

Yes, Croque Big Daddy falls under the Seafood category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Croque Big Daddy

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions