Madame Crunch is that delightful comfort food that brings together the richness of a layered sandwich and the creamy goodness of a béchamel sauce. This French-inspired dish transforms basic ingredients into a culinary treat, perfect for a cozy family dinner or an indulgent weekend brunch. Whether you’re craving something warm and cheesy or looking to impress guests, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and incredible flavors.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes Madame Crunch a must-try? For starters, it’s an effortless way to impress family and friends with a dish that feels gourmet while being budget-friendly and quick to whip up. Imagine a comforting, crispy sandwich swimming in cheesy béchamel, topped with a perfectly runny fried egg. It’s a meal that pleases both the palate and the pocket!
This recipe is particularly perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short but a hearty meal is desired. Plus, it often becomes a kid-approved favorite for its cheesy filling and fun presentation. As one enthusiastic cook shared:
"Madame Crunch quickly became a staple in our household! It’s satisfying, delicious, and my kids ask for seconds every time!"
The cooking process explained
Making Madame Crunch is simple and satisfying. The preparation involves a few straightforward steps: you’ll start by creating a rich béchamel sauce, layer your sandwich, pour that luscious sauce over it, and then all it needs is a warm hug in the oven. The steps flow together seamlessly, making the cooking experience enjoyable and rewarding.
- Gather your ingredients.
- Prepare the buttery béchamel sauce.
- Assemble your sandwich in a baking dish.
- Bake until bubbly and golden.
This overview should give you a solid idea of what to expect as you embark on your cooking journey.
What you’ll need
To bring this delightful dish to life, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 slices of bread (your choice, though a hearty bread works well)
- 2 slices of ham (smoked or traditional)
- 2 slices of cheese (Gruyère or Emmental are ideal)
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 1 cup of milk
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Nutmeg (optional, but adds a lovely depth)
Feel free to experiment with the bread or cheese based on what you have on hand. You could also make this gluten-free by opting for gluten-free bread.
