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Croque Madame

Creamy Croque Madame Casserole: Brunch Bliss Awaits

Indulge in this Croque Madame Casserole, a comforting and creamy twist on the classic French dish, perfect for brunch gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 8 slices Brioche Can substitute with challah, French bread, or thick-cut white bread.
  • 1 cup Gruyère Cheese Grated; can substitute with Emmental, Swiss cheese, or sharp white cheddar.
  • 8 ounces Turkey Ham For vegetarian option, use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers.
For the Béchamel Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Butter
  • 4 tablespoons Flour
  • 2 cups Milk Can substitute with low-fat milk or dairy alternatives.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1 pinch Nutmeg
For the Topping
  • 4 large Eggs
  • 1 cup Heavy cream
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • to taste Nutmeg

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until foamy. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour, stirring continually for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard and a pinch of nutmeg, then remove from heat.
  2. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and layer the bottom with 8 slices of slightly stale brioche. Sprinkle a generous layer of chopped turkey ham and 1 cup of grated Gruyère cheese on top. Repeat the layering process with the remaining brioche, ham, and cheese.
  3. Add the Béchamel Sauce: Pour the prepared béchamel sauce evenly over the assembled layers in the baking dish. Ensure that every slice of brioche is well-coated and use a spatula to gently press down the layers.
  4. Prepare the Eggs for Topping: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs and 1 cup of heavy cream until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of nutmeg.
  5. Bake the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture over the béchamel-coated casserole. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  6. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes. Slice into squares and enjoy warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slicesCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Using slightly stale brioche helps the bread absorb the béchamel without getting soggy. Customize fillings based on preferences for different proteins or veggies.

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