Croque Madame Casserole Recipe
This Croque Madame Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic French sandwich, combining layers of rich turkey ham, creamy béchamel sauce, and a blend of Gruyère and mozzarella cheeses with soft cooked eggs on top. Perfectly baked until golden and topped with fresh parsley, it makes a comforting and flavorful brunch or dinner option.
- Author: Dylan
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Casserole Base
- 8 slices brioche bread, cubed
- 6 slices turkey ham (or smoked turkey), chopped
- 1 ½ cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Béchamel Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Egg Topping
- 4–6 eggs (depending on preference)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Prepare the Bread and Ham Layer: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the cubed brioche bread evenly in the dish. Scatter the chopped turkey ham over the bread, ensuring even distribution. Sprinkle Gruyère and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the Dijon mustard, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the bread mixture.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and create small wells in the top of the casserole for the eggs. Crack an egg into each well and season with salt and black pepper. Return to the oven and bake for 10 more minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still slightly runny.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the eggs are cracked gently to avoid breaking the yolks for the perfect topping.
- Use smoked turkey for a smoky flavor or substitute with ham if preferred.
- Adjust the number of eggs based on personal preference and size of casserole dish.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best texture.
Keywords: Croque Madame, French casserole, brioche casserole, béchamel, turkey ham casserole, brunch recipe, baked eggs