Croque Madame

You will love this Croque-Madame recipe because it is easy to prepare and very tasty. Imagine crispy bread, melted cheese, ham, and an egg – all in one sandwich. This is the perfect quick breakfast or lunch that looks impressive but doesn't require much effort. It's ideal for those moments when you crave something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

• Use soft bread to make the sandwich even more tender and delicious.
• Be careful when making the béchamel to avoid lumps. Constant stirring is key.
• If you want to keep the egg yolk runny, watch the eggs carefully while frying.
• For a more intense flavor, use well-aged Gruyère cheese.
• If you prefer lighter flavors, you can reduce the amount of butter or replace it with a lighter alternative.

• Use a combination of Dijon mustard and mayonnaise for a richer flavor and freshness.
• Instead of ham, you can use smoked salmon or thinly sliced chicken, which will add variety to the taste.
• For a vegetarian version, replace the ham with mushrooms or zucchini, roasted with a little olive oil and spices.
• Add fresh spinach or arugula to the sandwich for extra greens and freshness.

• Gruyère is a Swiss cheese with a characteristic nutty flavor that melts beautifully, perfect for this type of sandwich.
• Béchamel, used in the recipe, is one of the five mother sauces in classical French cuisine.
• Dijon mustard is known for its sharp, slightly spicy flavor and originates from Dijon, France, from where it gets its name.
• Brioche is a traditional French bread made with eggs and butter, distinguished by its sweetness and richness.