This is a fresh take on this favorite French sammie, served any time of the day because it is so much more than an average breakfast treat.
Sure, Gruyère is the classic cheese of choice in most recipes, and it’s good. But mine features a lot of Parmesan, an herb pesto, and a pinch of chili flakes for a kick.
Modern Croque Madame
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 3-5 minutes
Makes 4 large open-face sandwiches
Parmesan Béchamel Sauce
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 smashed clove garlic
- Pinch of chili flakes
- Salt and cracked black pepper to taste
- 2 heaping tablespoons flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
Herby Pesto
- 2 cups your favorite fresh, tender herbs
- 1 clove garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup your favorite toasted nuts
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Sandwich
- 4 large slices artisan bread, toasted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ pound shaved ham
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan
- 4 eggs fried the way you like
- ¼ cup diced chives, for garnish
1. Set the oven to broil, then prepare the béchamel sauce. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, chili flakes, and salt and pepper.
2. Add flour and whisk till foamy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add milk and cheese. Cook until it thickens, then set aside.
4. Whirl all pesto ingredients in a food processor.
5. To assemble, smear pesto on toasted bread, then top with a couple of tablespoons of béchamel. Add sliced ham and more béchamel, measuring with your heart.
6. Top with grated Parmesan and broil for about 3 minutes, making sure not to burn it. Never turn your back on the broiler!
7. Top with fried eggs and chives, add salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy.