Irresistible Croque Madame Waffles for Cozy Brunch

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Croque Madame Waffles are a deliciously unique twist on the classic French dish, combining the beloved elements of a sandwich with the comforting texture of waffles. Perfect for a cozy brunch, these waffles are topped with savory ham, gooey cheese, and a rich béchamel sauce, making each bite an indulgent experience. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself, these waffles are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Croque Madame Waffles

This Croque Madame Waffle recipe is irresistible for several reasons. Firstly, it beautifully combines the crispy texture of waffles with the rich flavors of a traditional French waffle sandwich. Secondly, it’s a savory waffle dish that makes for a satisfying breakfast option. Additionally, the melted Gruyère cheese combined with the shaved ham creates a mouthwatering experience. Not to mention, it can be customized with various toppings to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer a gourmet touch or a simple yet tasty dish, this recipe has you covered. Finally, it’s a fun and unique way to enjoy a classic breakfast.

Ingredients for Croque Madame Waffles

Gather these items:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
4 tbsp melted butter
4 oz shaved ham
4 oz Gruyère cheese
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 large eggs (poached or fried)
to taste chives (optional)

How to Make Croque Madame Waffles Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for a couple of minutes, stirring frequently to form a roux.
Step 2: Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. It should be smooth and creamy!
Step 3: Continue to cook until the béchamel is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, stirring often. Remove from heat and stir in Dijon mustard, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Preheat the waffle maker to your desired setting, ensuring it’s hot and ready for that delicious batter.
Step 5: In a large bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.
Step 6: Add the lightly beaten eggs, milk, and melted butter. Stir just until everything is combined, taking care not to overmix.
Step 7: Gently fold in the diced ham and shredded Gruyère cheese, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 8: Grease the waffle maker, then pour about ¾ cup of the batter onto the surface. Close and cook according to your waffle maker’s instructions until golden brown.
Step 9: Once cooked, transfer the waffles to a parchment-lined baking tray. Top each waffle with about ⅙ of the béchamel sauce.
Step 10: Add 3-4 slices of shaved ham on top, and sprinkle with additional Gruyère cheese. Broil until the cheese is melted and the béchamel is bubbling—about 2-3 minutes!
Step 11: Move the waffles to a serving plate, and top with a poached or fried egg. Finish with a sprinkle of chives, if desired, for that extra touch.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Croque Madame Waffles

Keep these in mind:

Make sure your waffle maker is preheated for the best texture.
Don’t overmix the batter to avoid tough waffles.
Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors.
For a crispy Croque Madame waffle, broil it just before serving.

Best Ways to Serve Croque Madame Waffles

When it comes to serving, you can elevate your dish with a variety of toppings. Try adding a drizzle of hollandaise sauce for a gourmet touch, or serve with a side of mixed greens for a refreshing contrast. Another option is to sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper over the top for added spice. Croque Madame waffles with poached egg are also a classic choice for brunch.

How to Store and Reheat Croque Madame Waffles

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or waffle maker until they’re warm and crispy again. This makes them a great meal prep option for busy mornings!

Frequently Asked Questions About Croque Madame Waffles

What is a Croque Madame waffle?

A Croque Madame waffle is a French-inspired dish that combines the elements of a traditional Croque Madame sandwich with the texture of waffles. It’s typically topped with ham, cheese, béchamel sauce, and a fried or poached egg, making it a delightful savory waffle dish perfect for brunch.

Can I make Croque Madame waffles ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just be sure to give it a good stir before cooking. Additionally, you can cook the waffles ahead of time and reheat them in a toaster for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Croque Madame waffles?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your waffle maker is adequately preheated and don’t overmix the batter. This will help achieve a light and fluffy texture. Also, use quality ingredients for the best flavor in your savory waffle dish.

Variations of Croque Madame Waffles You Can Try

There are many unique Croque Madame waffle variations to explore! Consider using smoked salmon instead of ham for a flavorful twist, or add spinach for extra nutrition. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or fontina, to create your own gourmet Croque Madame waffles. The possibilities are endless, making these waffles a versatile brunch option!

For more delicious brunch ideas, check out Creamy Sausage Potato Chowder or Irresistible Thai Red Curry Kabobs. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, try Baked Garlic Chicken Meatloaf for a savory option!