Grilled Cheese with Ham, Potatoes and Béchamel (French Croque-Tartiflette)

Croque-Tartiflette is a variant of the croque-monsieur which adds potatoes and Reblochon cheese, just like the famous Tartiflette casserole. For extra richness and creaminess, it is smothered in homemade Béchamel sauce.

2 Tbsp. mustard
8 Tbsp. béchamel sauce, divided
8 slices sandwich bread
4 oz baked ham, thinly sliced
8 thin slices red-skinned potatoes, cooked
8 slices Reblochon cheese (enough to fill 4 sandwiches)
4 Tbsp. butter, softened

Preheat the broiler to the lowest heat setting.

Evenly divide and spread the mustard on 4 slices of bread. Place a few slices of ham, followed by 2 slices of potatoes, 2 slices Cantal, and 1 Tbsp. of Béchamel on the mustard-side of the bread. Cover the cheese with the remaining slices of bread and spread the butter on the outside surfaces of the sandwiches.

Place the sandwiches on an ungreased baking sheet and broil for about 5 minutes, turn them over, and continue cooking until they are crispy and golden brown, about 5 additional minutes.

Spread the top of the sandwich with 1 Tbsp. Béchamel and serve while hot.

Makes 4 servings.