Description
A rich and indulgent French-style breakfast sandwich layered with ham, gooey melted cheese, creamy béchamel sauce, and a fried egg on top.
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick-cut bread (brioche or French bread)
- 4 slices ham
- 4 slices Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp butter (for frying eggs)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter and whisk in flour to form a roux.
- Slowly add milk while whisking until smooth and thickened.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to create the béchamel sauce.
- Place bread slices on a baking sheet and layer each bottom slice with ham and cheese.
- Spread a spoonful of béchamel over the top slice of each sandwich.
- Assemble sandwiches and spoon more béchamel on top.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and tops are lightly golden.
- In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter and fry the eggs sunny-side up.
- Top each sandwich with a fried egg and serve warm.
Notes
- Brioche gives a sweeter, richer flavor, but any sturdy bread works.
- Add Dijon mustard inside for extra French flavor.
- Turn it into a Croque Madame by topping with the egg, or omit the egg for a Croque Monsieur.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: French