Croque Meneer: A South African Twist on a French Classic

Looking for a quick yet indulgent meal that fuses global inspiration with local flair? Meet the Croque Meneer—a proudly South African riff on the iconic French Croque Monsieur, made hearty and flavorful with biltong and creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves comfort food with character. Whether you’re planning a cozy brunch, a decadent lunch, or a laid-back dinner, this savory baked sandwich has all the makings of a crowd-pleaser.

This dish is especially great for:

• Busy foodies seeking a quick, flavorful upgrade to the classic grilled cheese.

• Biltong lovers looking for a new way to enjoy their favorite South African snack.

• Families needing a warm, satisfying dish that appeals to both adults and kids.

• Anyone who appreciates rich, cheesy comfort food made with simple pantry staples.

Let’s explore how this modern Croque Meneer blends texture, flavor, and nostalgia into every delicious bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Croque Meneer is everything we love about sandwiches—crispy edges, gooey cheese, and a satisfying crunch—all elevated with a creamy béchamel-like sauce and the unmistakable umami punch of biltong. The use of Low GI dumpy oats & honey SASKO white bread brings extra depth and a subtly sweet undertone, while Dijon mustard cuts through the richness for perfect balance.

This dish is proof that luxurious doesn’t have to mean complicated.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this savory showstopper:

• SASKO white cake flour (for thickening the sauce)

• Low GI dumpy oats & honey flavoured SASKO white bread – 4 slices

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 500ml milk

• 1 cup grated cheese (Cheddar or a mix of Cheddar and Gruyère work great)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Dijon mustard

• Sliced biltong

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make the perfect Croque Meneer, you’ll want the following kitchen tools on hand:

• Medium saucepan

• Whisk

• Butter knife

• Cheese grater

• Oven-safe baking dish or tray

• Oven with a grill (broiler) function

• Spatula or slotted spoon

Step-by-Step Method

1. Make the White Sauce (Cheese Béchamel)

Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, slowly whisk in SASKO white cake flour (about 2 tablespoons, though the original recipe implies this by omission). Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Gradually pour in 500ml milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce. This will take about 5–7 minutes.

Add 1 cup of grated cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the Toast

Toast 4 slices of Low GI dumpy oats & honey flavoured SASKO white bread until golden. Arrange the slices neatly in a greased oven-safe dish.

Spread a thin layer of butter on each slice, followed by a generous smear of Dijon mustard.

3. Assemble the Sandwich

On two slices, add a layer of grated cheese and sliced biltong. Top with the remaining slices of toast to create a sandwich.

Now pour the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the sandwiches. Finish with a final sprinkle of grated cheese for that irresistible golden crust.

4. Grill to Perfection

Place the baking dish under a preheated grill at 180°C (350°F). Grill until the cheese topping is bubbling and golden brown—about 10–15 minutes.

Serve immediately, and get ready for compliments!

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Don’t have all the ingredients on hand? Here are some creative twists and swaps:

• No biltong? Substitute with cooked bacon, ham, or smoked chicken.

• Add an egg on top before grilling for a true Croque Madame-style experience.

• Go spicy by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or using a spicy mustard.

• Make it vegetarian: Swap the biltong for grilled mushrooms or roasted peppers.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

If you manage to have leftovers (rare!), here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Place on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes, or until warmed through.

Avoid microwaving if possible—this can make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery.

Perfect Pairings

Drink Pairings:

• Sparkling apple cider or a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the richness.

• For breakfast or brunch: strong black coffee or a chai latte pairs beautifully with the savory, cheesy notes.

Side Dishes:

• Simple green salad with vinaigrette for contrast.

• Pickled onions or gherkins to add acidity.

• Sweet potato fries for a hearty meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I freeze Croque Meneer?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh. However, you can freeze the assembled sandwiches (before adding the cheese sauce) for up to a month. Add the sauce fresh before baking.

Q: What’s the difference between Croque Meneer and Croque Monsieur?
A: Croque Meneer is a playful South African twist on the French classic, using biltong instead of ham and a heartier, flavored bread for added depth.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes! The cheese sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently before using.

Q: Is biltong safe to cook with?
A: Absolutely! Biltong is cured and dried, and adding it to cooked dishes is safe and delicious. Just don’t overcook it to retain its tender texture.

Final Thoughts

Croque Meneer is a heartwarming fusion of cultures, combining the French art of indulgence with unmistakably South African soul. Rich, cheesy, meaty, and comforting—this is a dish that brings people to the table and keeps them coming back for more.

Whether you’re impressing guests, treating yourself, or feeding the family, this recipe delivers every time.

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Let us know in the comments: how did your Croque Meneer turn out? Did you add your own twist? We’d love to hear from you!