Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Gluten-Free Delight: Enjoy a classic French dish tailored for gluten-sensitive diets without compromising on taste.
- Rich and Savory: The combination of ham, Gruyère cheese, and béchamel sauce creates a decadent flavor profile.
- Perfect for Brunch: Elevate your brunch menu with this elegant and satisfying sandwich.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward ingredients and steps, this recipe is accessible even for beginner cooks.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices gluten-free bread
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 12 slices gluten-free ham (e.g., Boar’s Head)
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or a suitable gluten-free alternative)
- 4 large eggs
- Fresh chives (chopped for garnish)
- Microgreens (for serving, optional)
- Freshly cracked black pepper (for serving)
For the Gluten-Free Béchamel Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1½ tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp gluten-free Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) with a rack in the center position.
- Prepare Béchamel Sauce:
- In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour, whisking for about 30 seconds.
- Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.
- Cook until the sauce thickens (about 4 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in mustard, salt, and nutmeg.
- Assemble Sandwiches:
- Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Place four slices, buttered side down, on a baking sheet.
- Add ham and cheese on each.
- Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- Bake: Bake for about 6 minutes, or until the bread is golden and cheese melts.
- Broil:
- Spread béchamel sauce over sandwiches.
- Add extra cheese if desired.
- Broil until cheese bubbles and browns (3-4 minutes).
- Fry Eggs:
- In a skillet, heat a bit of butter or oil.
- Fry eggs until whites are set but yolks are still runny (about 5 minutes).
- Place an egg on top of each sandwich.
- Serve: Garnish with chives, microgreens, and black pepper. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Cheese Alternatives: Use Emmental or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Bread Choices: Experiment with different types of gluten-free bread, such as sourdough or brioche, to vary the texture and taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- For the egg, it’s best to cook a fresh one when serving leftovers.
FAQs
What is a Croque Madame?
A Croque Madame is a classic French sandwich consisting of ham, cheese, and béchamel sauce, topped with a fried egg. It’s a variation of the Croque Monsieur, which doesn’t include the egg.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, such as vegan butter, dairy-free cheese, and plant-based milk for the béchamel sauce.
What type of gluten-free bread works best?
A sturdy gluten-free bread, like sourdough or artisan-style loaves, works well to hold the fillings without becoming too soggy.
Can I prepare any components in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the béchamel sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before assembling the sandwiches.
How can I ensure the egg yolk remains runny?
Fry the eggs over medium heat until the whites are fully
classic French Croque Madame
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in a gourmet, gluten-free Croque Madame! This classic French sandwich is elevated with layers of savory beef, melted Gruyère cheese, creamy gluten-free béchamel, and a perfectly fried egg. A hearty, satisfying dish perfect for brunch or a quick elegant meal.
Ingredients
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices gluten-free bread
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 12 slices gluten-free beef
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- 4 large eggs
- Fresh chives (chopped, for garnish)
- Microgreens (optional)
- Freshly cracked black pepper
For the Gluten-Free Béchamel Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1½ tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp gluten-free Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Béchamel Sauce:
- Melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat.
- Whisk in the gluten-free flour and cook for 30 seconds.
- Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.
- Simmer until thickened (about 4 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in mustard, salt, and nutmeg.
- Assemble Sandwiches:
- Butter one side of each bread slice.
- On a baking sheet, place four slices butter-side down.
- Layer ham and Gruyère cheese on each slice.
- Top with remaining bread, buttered side up.
- Bake and Broil:
- Bake sandwiches for 6 minutes or until golden.
- Spread béchamel sauce on top of each sandwich.
- Broil for 3-4 minutes until bubbly and browned.
- Fry Eggs:
- Heat butter or oil in a skillet.
- Fry eggs until whites are set and yolks are runny (about 5 minutes).
- Serve:
- Place a fried egg on each sandwich.
- Garnish with chives, microgreens, and black pepper.
Notes
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter, cheese, and milk.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Make Ahead: Prepare béchamel sauce up to 2 days in advance and reheat gently.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Main Course
- Method: Baking, Frying
- Cuisine: French
