"Croque Monsieur" and "Croque Madame"

Name: "Croque Monsieur" and "Croque Madame"
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: White bread - 100 g; Chicken egg - 60 g; Butter - 40 g; Ham - 80 g; Hard cheese - 100 g; Lettuce leaves - 16 g; Vegetable oil - 17 g

Cookinero 10 Sep 2025

1310

This recipe, which first appeared in France, can be used to make two dishes at once, which are practically the same and are hot sandwiches with ham and cheese. They are usually eaten as a light breakfast or used as an appetizer. The main difference is that a fried egg is placed on the Croque Madame, making the sandwich look like a woman's hat.

How to cook "Croque Monsieur" and "Croque Madame"

Step 1

Fry the bread. Cut the cheese and ham into round or square slices. Spread butter on the bread and fry it for 3 minutes until golden brown on one side. Turn the pieces of bread over and put a slice of cheese on 2 of them. Cover the pan with a lid and wait 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.

Step 2

Make sandwiches. Place a slice of ham on top of the cheese, then a leaf of lettuce and another slice of cheese on top. Cover both sandwiches with the remaining bread and toast, covered, for about a minute. For the croque madame, fry an egg in vegetable oil and place it on one of the sandwiches.

"Croque Monsieur" and "Croque Madame" - FAQ About Ingredients, Baking Time and Storage

Can I use a different type of cheese for Croque Monsieur/Madame?

Yes! While traditional recipes use Gruyère or Emmental, you can substitute with Swiss, cheddar, or even mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just ensure it melts well.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit the ham or replace it with grilled mushrooms, spinach, or a plant-based deli slice. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

Can I prepare Croque Monsieur ahead of time?

You can assemble the sandwiches (without frying) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Fry just before serving for the crispiest results.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet over low heat to maintain crispiness. Microwaving can make the bread soggy.

How do I make a gluten-free version?

Use gluten-free bread and ensure your ham and cheese are gluten-free. Fry as directed, checking labels for hidden gluten in ingredients.

Can I freeze Croque Monsieur sandwiches?

Freeze assembled but unfried sandwiches for up to 1 month. Thaw slightly before frying, or bake from frozen at 350°F until heated through.

What sides pair well with Croque Monsieur/Madame?

A simple green salad, pickles, or roasted potatoes complement the richness. For brunch, serve with fresh fruit.

How can I make a lighter version of this dish?

Use whole-grain bread, reduced-fat cheese, and lean ham. For Croque Madame, opt for egg whites or a lighter cooking spray.

Why isn’t my cheese melting properly?

Ensure your pan is covered to trap heat, and slice cheese thinly. Low heat helps melt cheese evenly without burning the bread.

Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes! Assemble the sandwich, brush with melted butter, and air fry at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and melted.

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