The Croque Madame is a quintessential French breakfast sandwich, featuring layers of ham and melted cheese, topped with a perfectly fried egg. This savory dish is a popular choice for brunch, combining rich flavors and satisfying textures.
This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a delightful breakfast option. With its crispy bread and runny yolk, it’s a classic French recipe that embodies the essence of French café food.
Delicious Croque Madame Sandwich
The French Croque Madame is a delightful twist on the classic ham and cheese sandwich, perfect for a savory brunch. This dish features layers of melted cheese and ham, all topped with a perfectly fried egg.
Often enjoyed in charming Parisian cafés, this sandwich embodies the essence of French breakfast. With its crispy bread and runny yolk, it stands out as a must-try among classic French recipes.
Ideal for a weekend brunch, the Croque Madame is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to a cozy café setting, complete with the aroma of fresh coffee in the background.
Ingredients for the Perfect Croque Madame
To create this mouthwatering sandwich, gather the following ingredients:
Four slices of bread, preferably brioche or sourdough, provide a golden, crispy base. Layer in four slices of ham and four slices of Gruyère cheese for that rich, savory flavor.
Don’t forget the unsalted butter, which adds a delightful crispness when grilled, and two large eggs to crown the sandwich. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and for an extra kick, consider Dijon mustard.
Chopped fresh parsley can be used as a garnish, adding a touch of color and freshness to your presentation.
Preparing the Croque Madame
Begin by preparing the bread. Spread butter on one side of each slice, and if desired, spread Dijon mustard on the unbuttered side of two slices.
Assemble the sandwich by placing a slice of ham and cheese on the mustard side of each of the two slices, then top with the remaining slices of bread, ensuring the buttered sides are facing up.
Next, cook the sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat for about three to four minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and the cheese is beautifully melted.
Frying the Eggs
While the sandwiches are cooking, prepare the eggs in a separate pan. Fry them to your desired doneness, seasoning with salt and pepper for added flavor.
The fried egg is the crowning glory of the Croque Madame, with its runny yolk that drips down the sides, enhancing the overall taste and presentation of the dish.
Serving Your Croque Madame
Once the sandwiches are cooked to perfection, place them on plates and top each with a fried egg.
For a touch of elegance, garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately to enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.
This Croque Madame is not just a breakfast sandwich; it’s a celebration of French café food that will impress anyone at your brunch table.
Why Choose Croque Madame for Brunch?
This savory brunch idea is a fantastic way to start your day. The combination of ham, cheese, and egg creates a satisfying meal that is both hearty and indulgent.
With its rich flavors and comforting textures, the Croque Madame is a standout choice among breakfast sandwiches.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or simply treating yourself, this classic French recipe is sure to please.
Delicious Croque Madame Sandwich
This Croque Madame sandwich is made with golden, crispy bread, layers of ham and cheese, and finished with a fried egg on top. The recipe takes about 30 minutes and serves 2 people, making it an ideal choice for a cozy brunch at home.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread (preferably brioche or sourdough)
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of Gruyère cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. If using, spread Dijon mustard on the unbuttered side of two slices.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on the mustard side of each of the two slices. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
- Cook the Sandwich: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Fry the Eggs: In a separate pan, fry the eggs to your desired doneness, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Place the sandwiches on plates, top each with a fried egg, and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2 sandwiches
- Calories: 550kcal
- Fat: 35g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g