Croque Madame Savory Waffles

Looking for something different to serve at brunch These Croque Madame waffles deliver all the flavors of the iconic French bistro sandwich with the cozy comfort of a homemade waffle and a luxurious sauce over the top. With melty Gruyere savory ham a buttery béchamel and a golden fried egg this is the kind of recipe that turns a weekend morning into an occasion.

The first time I made these my family hovered around the waffle maker impatient for the first batch. Now we have requests for Croque Madame waffles every special birthday breakfast.

Ingredients

• Butter: For the base of the béchamel sauce look for unsalted high quality
• All purpose flour: Essential to thicken the sauce sift for a smoother texture
• Whole milk: Makes the sauce rich and silky use whole for best flavor
• Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tang and complexity choose traditional French Dijon
• Baking powder: Ensures the waffles rise and stay fluffy check expiration for best results
• Eggs: Used in both waffles and as toppers large eggs at room temperature work best
• Shaved ham: Classic Croque Madame ingredient choose a quality deli ham or leftover roast
• Gruyere cheese: Adds nutty melty flavors look for a block and grate yourself for best results
• Salt and pepper: To balance flavors use freshly cracked pepper
• Chives: Fresh and delicate for garnish optional but brightens the dish
• Parchment or silicone mat: Makes waffle tray cleanup a breeze

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Béchamel:

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium low heat then whisk in flour Cook for several minutes whisking so no lumps form The goal is to gently cook off the flour flavor without browning the mix

Slowly whisk in whole milk a little at a time stirring constantly until smooth Continue to cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of your spoon

Stir in Dijon mustard and season generously with salt and pepper Take off the heat and set aside for later

Prepare the Waffle Batter:

Preheat the waffle iron so it is ready

Mix flour baking powder and salt in a large bowl Gently stir in the eggs plus whole milk and melted butter until just combined

Fold in the diced ham and shredded Gruyere cheese being careful not to overmix for tender waffles

Cook the Waffles:

Grease your waffle maker then pour in about three quarters of a cup of batter per waffle Cook until golden brown and crisp on the outside This usually takes a few minutes per batch

Assemble and Finish:

Line a baking tray with parchment or a silicone mat Arrange cooked waffles on the tray

Generously spoon about a sixth of the béchamel over each waffle Top with several slices of shaved ham and a sprinkle of Gruyere

Broil until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly hot Then move each waffle to a plate and top with a freshly cooked egg plus chopped chives if you like

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I love how Gruyere cheese transforms these waffles with its deep flavor and meltiness It reminds me of the first trip I took with my sister to Paris where we had a Croque Madame on a bustling sidewalk The memory of buttery crisp edges and runny yolks comes back every time I make this for my own family

Storage Tips

You can make the waffles in advance and refrigerate for up to two days or freeze for a month Lay cooled waffles in a single layer and reheat in a toaster oven to keep them crisp The béchamel is best made fresh but leftovers can be gently reheated on the stove with a bit of extra milk

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have Gruyere Swiss or Emmental also work Mozzarella can be used but gives a milder flavor For the ham you can use turkey or cooked bacon If Dijon is too strong try blending with a milder mustard

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a light green salad with lemony vinaigrette or a side of roasted asparagus Fruit compote or apple slices on the side make a sweet contrast For a group set up a DIY waffle bar and let guests assemble with their choice of toppings

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A Little History

The classic Croque Madame was invented in Paris bistros as a twist on the Croque Monsieur by adding a poached or fried egg Croque Madame waffles add a playful American spin with the beloved breakfast staple at its core

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of ham works best?

Shaved or thinly sliced ham, such as deli ham or leftover baked ham, works beautifully for both the waffle batter and topping.

→ Can I substitute a different cheese?

Absolutely! Swap gruyere for Swiss, Emmental, or even cheddar for a different flavor while retaining that creamy melt.

→ How do I get the bechamel sauce smooth?

Whisk in the milk gradually and stir constantly while cooking, ensuring a velvety, lump-free consistency for your sauce.

→ Is it possible to prepare waffles ahead of time?

Yes, the waffles can be made ahead and reheated or crisped in the oven just before topping and serving.

→ What eggs work best on top?

Both poached or fried eggs are excellent choices. Cook to your preferred doneness so the yolk enriches each bite.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can skip the ham and add sautéed spinach or mushrooms as a savory alternative for a vegetarian version.