Croque Madame

4 servings

35 minutes

Croque-madame is an exquisite French sandwich considered a refined version of the classic croque-monsieur. Its history dates back to early 20th century Paris, where it emerged as a simple yet elegant snack. A key feature is the delicate fried egg that crowns the sandwich, adding softness and richness. The crispy golden toast, aromatic Gruyère cheese, and tangy Dijon mustard create a harmonious blend of flavors complemented by juicy ham. Croque-madame is perfect for morning breakfasts or cozy brunches, and its rich and tender taste makes it a favorite dish among gourmets worldwide.

Energy value per serving

• Calories: 994
• Proteins: 39.5g
• Fats: 69.7g
• Carbohydrates: 47.2g

Ingredients

• Boiled ham: 230 g
• Chicken egg: 4 pc
• Gruyere cheese: 200 g
• Butter: 5 tbsp
• White bread for toast: 8 pc
• Milk: 460 ml
• Wheat flour: 3 tbsp
• Dijon mustard: 4 tsp
• Nutmeg: 0.1 tsp
• Salt: to taste
• Fresh pepper: to taste

Cooking steps

1. Melt three tablespoons of butter in a heavy pot over low heat, add flour, and cook, stirring, for three minutes. Pour in the milk and bring it to a boil, continuing to stir. Reduce the heat, and after five minutes, add salt, pepper, grated nutmeg, and 50 g of grated cheese. When the Gruyère melts, turn off the heat and cover the pot with wax paper.

   Required ingredients:

   • Butter: 5 tablespoon
   • Wheat flour: 3 tablespoons
   • Milk: 460 ml
   • Salt:  to taste
   • Fresh pepper:  to taste
   • Nutmeg: 0.1 teaspoon
   • Gruyere cheese: 200 g

2. Spread mustard on four slices of bread, top with thinly sliced ham. Spread cheese sauce on another four slices (about one and a half tablespoons per slice), sprinkle with remaining grated cheese, and cover with the mustard and ham sandwiches.

   Required ingredients:

   • Dijon mustard: 4 teaspoons
   • Boiled ham: 230 g
   • Gruyere cheese: 200 g
   • White bread for toast: 8 pieces

3. In a shallow pan, melt a tablespoon of oil, fry the sandwiches on both sides for three to four minutes until golden brown, and transfer them to a lightly greased baking sheet, removing excess fat with a paper towel.

   Required ingredients:

   • Butter: 5 tablespoon

4. Pour about a third of a cup of sauce over each sandwich and place them in a preheated oven at 180 degrees for a few minutes. When the sauce bubbles and turns golden, turn off the oven and move the baking tray to the lower third.

   Required ingredients:

   • Milk: 460 ml

5. Heat the remaining oil in a pan over medium heat. When the foam subsides, crack the eggs into the pan, season with salt and pepper, and fry sunny-side up for about three minutes, so the whites set while the yolk remains runny. Cover each sandwich with the fried egg — and serve immediately.

   Required ingredients:

   • Butter: 5 tablespoon
   • Chicken egg: 4 pieces
   • Salt:  to taste
   • Fresh pepper:  to taste