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
