How to Make the Perfect Croque Madame
French · Medium · 30 min · 2 servings
This classic French bistro sandwich features layers of thinly sliced ham and melted Gruyere cheese between buttery toasted bread, all blanketed in a rich and velvety bechamel sauce and crowned with a perfectly fried egg. It is the ultimate elevated brunch sandwich that feels indulgent and special without being complicated.
Why this recipe works
This Croque Madame recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 30 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 650 calories with 38g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 slices thick white sandwich bread or brioche
- 6 slices thinly sliced French ham or Black Forest ham
- 1.5 cups shredded Gruyere cheese divided
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter plus more for toast
- 1 cup whole milk warmed
- 2 whole large eggs
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Make the Bechamel
Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat and whisk in two tablespoons of flour. Cook the paste for one minute, then gradually add warm milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until thick and creamy, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, then stir in a few tablespoons of the Gruyere.
Step 2: Assemble and Toast the Sandwiches
Butter both sides of each bread slice and toast in a skillet over medium heat until golden. Spread a thin layer of bechamel on the inside of each slice, layer ham and a generous amount of Gruyere between two slices, and press together. Spread more bechamel over the top of each assembled sandwich.
Step 3: Broil Until Golden
Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and scatter the remaining Gruyere over the bechamel-topped surface. Place under a preheated broiler for 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese is bubbling, golden, and slightly charred in spots. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Step 4: Fry the Egg and Serve
While the sandwiches are under the broiler, fry two eggs in a buttered skillet over medium heat until whites are fully set but yolks remain runny. Carefully place one fried egg on top of each broiled sandwich and serve immediately with a simple green salad or cornichons on the side.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- Gruyere cheese → Emmental or aged Comté for an equally authentic French flavor
- white sandwich bread → thick slices of sourdough for a tangier more rustic version
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Making the bechamel too thin which causes it to run off the sandwich during broiling
- Over-broiling the sandwiches which dries out the ham and makes the bread tough instead of crisp
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 650 calories, 38g protein, 42g carbs, 38g fat, 2g fiber.
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