Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 slices of white bread
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 eggs
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- Non-stick skillet
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a non-stick skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
3. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Add the nutmeg, salt, pepper, and half of the grated Gruyere cheese. Whisk until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat.
7. Toast the bread slices until lightly browned.
8. Place a slice of ham on each slice of bread.
9. Spoon the cheese sauce over the ham.
10. Top each slice with the remaining grated Gruyere cheese.
11. Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. In a non-stick skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
13. Crack the eggs into the skillet and cook until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
14. Remove the Croque Madames from the oven and place each one on a plate.
15. Top each Croque Madame with a fried egg.
16. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 550
Fat per serving: 38g
Carbohydrates per serving: 25g
Protein per serving: 27g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- White bread can be substituted with whole wheat bread or sourdough bread.
- Gruyere cheese can be substituted with Swiss cheese or cheddar cheese.
- Ham can be substituted with turkey or chicken.
Variations:
- Croque Monsieur: omit the fried egg and serve as is.
- Croque Madame with a Twist: add sliced avocado or tomato on top of the ham before adding the cheese sauce.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the cheese sauce from sticking.
- Use a whisk to ensure a smooth cheese sauce.
- Toast the bread slices before adding the ham and cheese sauce to prevent the bread from getting soggy.
Storage instructions:
The Croque Madames can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the Croque Madames in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Croque Madames on a plate with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top of the Croque Madames.
Pairings:
Pair the Croque Madames with a glass of white wine or a cup of coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
Side salad or roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out. If the cheese sauce is too thin, add more grated cheese.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the eggs until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
The Croque Madame is a classic French sandwich that originated in Paris in the early 1900s.
Flavor profiles:
The Croque Madame is a rich and savory sandwich with a creamy cheese sauce, salty ham, and a runny egg on top.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Croque Madames for breakfast, brunch, or lunch.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: French