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Instructions:
- Prepare the béchamel sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes, until slightly golden. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Toast the bread:
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. Toast the bread, buttered side down, until golden and crispy. Flip and lightly toast the other side.
- Assemble the sandwiches:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place 2 slices of toasted bread on a baking sheet. Spread a spoonful of béchamel sauce over each slice, then top with a slice of ham and a generous handful of grated Gruyère cheese. Place the other slice of toasted bread on top of each sandwich and spoon more béchamel over the top. Sprinkle with additional cheese.
- Bake the sandwiches:
- Bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles. For extra browning, turn on the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Fry the eggs:
- While the sandwiches are baking, heat a small amount of butter in a non-stick skillet. Fry the eggs sunny-side up, leaving the yolks slightly runny. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Top the Croque Madame:
- Remove the sandwiches from the oven and carefully place a fried egg on top of each one.
- Serve:
- Serve the Croque Madames immediately, with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy the gooey, cheesy, and egg-topped perfection.
Conclusion:
The Croque Madame brings together the best of both worlds: a rich, cheesy sandwich with a velvety béchamel sauce, and the added indulgence of a sunny egg on top. With its crispy, buttery bread and melted layers of Gruyère and ham, it’s a dish that feels fancy yet is easy to make. Whether you’re indulging in a leisurely brunch or a quick but decadent dinner, the Croque Madame is a perfect choice for any occasion.
Extra Tips:
- For a Croque Monsieur (the eggless version), skip the fried egg topping.
- Try adding Dijon mustard to the béchamel sauce for a tangy kick.
- Serve with a light green salad or crispy French fries to complete the meal.
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