Save to Pinterest The Effortless 3-Ingredient Croque Madame Toast Hack A simplified take on the French café classic, featuring creamy melted cheese, savory ham, and a perfectly cooked egg—all atop crisp toast. Ideal for quick brunches or luxurious breakfasts.
This classic has become a weekend favorite, bringing the taste of a Parisian café right to my kitchen with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- Bread & Base: 2 large slices of thick-cut white or sourdough bread
- Filling: 2 slices of cooked ham (preferably Parisian or smoked)
- Topping: 2 large eggs, 2 slices of Gruyère or Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven broiler or a toaster oven to high.
- Step 2:
- Lightly toast the bread slices until golden brown.
- Step 3:
- Place a slice of ham on each piece of toast and top with a slice of cheese.
- Step 4:
- Place the prepared toasts on a baking tray and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts and begins to bubble.
- Step 5:
- Meanwhile, heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and fry the eggs to your liking (sunny side up is traditional).
- Step 6:
- Carefully place one fried egg on top of each cheesy toast.
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately while hot and melty.
Save to Pinterest This recipe has brought many cozy brunch moments with family, especially on lazy weekend mornings.
Notes
For a classic French touch, serve with a green salad and vinaigrette. To make a Croque Monsieur, simply omit the egg.
Required Tools
Toaster or toaster oven, baking tray, nonstick skillet, spatula
Nutritional Information
Calories: 350, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 26 g, Protein: 21 g
Save to Pinterest A quick, flavorful brunch option that elevates simple ingredients into a French classic.
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of bread works best for this dish?
Thick-cut white or sourdough bread offers a sturdy base that crisps well under the broiler.
- → Can I substitute the ham with other meats?
Yes, smoked or Parisian-style ham works great, but you can experiment with turkey or cooked bacon for different flavors.
- → How do I achieve the perfect melted cheese topping?
Place the assembled toast under a high broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese bubbles and begins to brown.
- → What’s the traditional way to cook the egg?
Sunny side up is classic, but you can fry the egg to your preferred doneness for a personal touch.
- → Are there recommended cheese alternatives?
Gruyère is traditional, but Emmental, Swiss, or cheddar all melt well and add distinct flavors.