Caramelized Apple and Ham Croque Monsieur

INSTRUCTIONS

• 1 For the Béchamel, melt butter on low heat in medium saucepan. Add flour; cook and stir on low heat 5 minutes, without browning. Whisk in cold milk; bring to boil, stirring to remove any lumps. Stir in Gruyere, Parmesan, salt and nutmeg just until cheese is melted. Remove from heat immediately.
• 2 For the Apple Filling, melt butter on medium heat in large skillet. Add apple slices and sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon. Cook 4 to 5 minutes, until apple is lightly browned and caramelized, turning halfway through. Remove from heat.
• 3 To assemble Croque Monsieur, heat broiler on LOW. Place oven rack 6-inches from heating element. Arrange bread in single layer on large baking sheet. Broil 1 minute per side or just until lightly toasted.
• 4 Spread a thin layer of Béchamel on each slice of bread, about 1 tablespoon per slice. Layer 6 slices of the bread evenly with ham, Gruyere and caramelized apples. Top with remaining bread slices, Béchamel side up. Divide remaining Gruyere evenly over top of each sandwich. Sprinkle with additional black pepper. Broil on HIGH just until cheese is melted and lightly browned.