A classic French sandwich that elevates the humble ham and cheese sandwich to an elegant brunch or lunch dish. It’s essentially a Croque Monsieur topped with a perfectly cooked, sunny-side-up egg. The combination of warm, toasted bread, melted cheese, savory ham, creamy béchamel sauce, and a runny egg is absolutely divine.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of good quality white bread
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 slices of ham
- 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or a similar melting cheese like Emmental)
- 4 large eggs
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for extra flavor
Directions
- Prepare the Béchamel Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add flour and stir for about 2 minutes without browning. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until it thickens, about 5 minutes. Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread each slice of bread lightly with butter. Turn 4 slices buttered side down and spread with a thin layer of béchamel sauce. Add a slice of ham and a generous sprinkle of cheese on each. Cover with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- Cook the Sandwiches: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sandwiches until golden brown on both sides and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Add More Béchamel and Cheese: Preheat your broiler. Transfer the sandwiches to a baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on top of each sandwich and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Broil the Sandwiches: Broil until the cheese on top is bubbling and beginning to brown, about 2-3 minutes.
- Fry the Eggs: While the sandwiches are broiling, fry the eggs to your preference (traditionally sunny-side-up) in a non-stick skillet.
- Serve: Top each sandwich with a fried egg. Season the egg with a little salt and pepper.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Protein: 40g
Prep and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings
- Serves: 4 people
Croque Madame is a deliciously indulgent dish, perfect for a weekend brunch or a special lunch. The crispy, buttery bread, melted cheese, savory ham, creamy béchamel, and the richness of the egg create a symphony of flavors and textures. Bon appétit!
