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Classic Comforting Croque Madame Recipe

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A nostalgic French ham and cheese sandwich with melted Gruyère, creamy béchamel sauce, and a perfectly fried egg on top, perfect for brunch or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices of white sandwich bread (preferably slightly thick-cut for sturdiness)
  • 8 oz (225 g) thinly sliced ham (Black Forest ham recommended)
  • 8 oz (225 g) Gruyère cheese, grated (Swiss cheese as substitute)
  • Butter, softened (for spreading on bread and cooking)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for béchamel sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for béchamel sauce)
  • 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) whole milk, warmed (can substitute 2% or oat milk)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
  • 4 large eggs (room temperature for best frying)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to season eggs)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth and slightly golden. Slowly pour in 1 1/4 cups warmed whole milk while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Stir until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Assemble the Sandwiches: Lightly butter one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, layer ham and grated Gruyère cheese. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side out.
  3. Cook the Sandwiches: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook sandwiches 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese melts. Press gently with spatula for even toasting.
  4. Add Béchamel and Extra Cheese (Optional): Preheat broiler to 400°F (200°C). Place sandwiches on baking sheet, spoon béchamel sauce over each, sprinkle extra Gruyère, and broil 2-3 minutes until cheese bubbles and lightly golden.
  5. Fry the Eggs: Heat butter in a clean skillet over medium heat. Crack in eggs and fry until whites are set but yolks remain runny, about 3-4 minutes. Season with black pepper.
  6. Serve: Place one fried egg on each sandwich and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

If béchamel is too thick, whisk in a splash of warm milk to loosen. Use softened butter for even spreading. Watch broiler carefully to avoid burning cheese. Room temperature eggs fry more evenly. For gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and flour substitute. Vegetarian version swaps ham for mushrooms or caramelized onions.

Nutrition

Keywords: Croque Madame, ham and cheese sandwich, French sandwich, béchamel sauce, brunch recipe, comfort food, Gruyère cheese

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/classic-comforting-croque-madame-recipe-easy-ham-and-cheese-sandwich-ideas/