Croque Madame Recipe

Prepare the Mornay Sauce

In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux.

Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook while whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of grated Gruyère cheese, 0.5 tsp of salt, 0.25 tsp of black pepper, and 0.25 tsp of nutmeg. Set aside.

Assemble the Sandwich

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of Gruyère cheese.

Top with the other two slices of bread, buttered side up. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet.

Cook the Sandwiches

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, until the bread is golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwiches and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Fry the Eggs

In a skillet, heat a little butter over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the skillet and cook until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny, about 3-4 minutes.

Finish the Croque Madame

Remove the sandwiches from the oven, top each with a generous amount of the Mornay sauce, then place a fried egg on top of each sandwich. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar, 0.25 tsp of salt, and 0.25 tsp of black pepper.

Toss the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens and drizzle the dressing over the top. Toss gently to coat.