Classic Croque-Madame

Step-by-step instructions

Here’s how to prepare your Classic Croque-Madame:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the bread: Spread Dijon mustard on one side of each slice of bread.
Build your sandwich: Place a slice of ham and a slice of Gruyère cheese on one piece of bread, then top with the other slice to create a sandwich.
Make the béchamel sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook it for about a minute, then gradually whisk in the milk. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens. Season it with salt, pepper, and a dash of nutmeg if desired.
Bake the sandwich: Place your sandwich on a baking sheet, pour the prepared sauce over it, and sprinkle additional cheese on top.
Oven time: Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Fry the eggs: While it’s baking, fry your eggs in a skillet to your desired doneness.
Plate: Serve the sandwich hot, topped with a fried egg.

Best ways to enjoy it

The beauty of a Classic Croque-Madame is in its versatility. Serve it simply on a plate, perhaps alongside a lightly dressed green salad for a refreshing contrast. For a truly decadent experience, consider pairing it with a side of crispy French fries or a warm tomato soup. A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a robust coffee complements the dish beautifully, taking you from your kitchen to a Parisian bistro in no time.

Storage and reheating tips

Should you have leftovers (which is often rare!), here’s how to store your delicious Croque-Madame:

Refrigerate: Place the sandwich in an airtight container. It should last for about 2-3 days in the fridge.
Reheat: For the best results, reheat in the oven until warmed through and the cheese is melty again, rather than using a microwave which may make the bread soggy.
Freezing: You can freeze the assembled sandwich before baking. When ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it’s heated completely.

Helpful cooking tips

Use fresh, quality ingredients—great bread and cheese can elevate your dish significantly.
If you’re short on time, consider using pre-made béchamel sauce, available in many grocery stores.
For a flavor boost, experiment with adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to the sandwich before baking.
A light sprinkling of herbs like thyme or parsley right before serving can add freshness.

Creative twists

Variety is the spice of life! Here are some fun variations to try:

Vegetarian option: Replace ham with grilled vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers.
Cheese choices: Swap Gruyère for a sharp cheddar or creamy cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Spicy touch: Add a thin layer of sriracha or other hot sauce to the mustard for a kick.
Egg style: Try poaching the egg instead of frying for a more elegant presentation.