Croque Madame
AI-generated illustration
The Croque Madame is a classic French bistro sandwich, essentially a grilled ham and cheese (Croque Monsieur) topped with a fried egg. It typically consists of sliced bread, ham, Gruyère cheese, and a béchamel sauce, all baked or pan-fried until golden and bubbly, with the egg cooked sunny-side up on top.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in fat and protein due to the cheese, ham, and egg, with a moderate to high carbohydrate content from the bread. A single serving can range from 500 to 700 calories, providing significant calcium, iron, and B vitamins.
💡 What's interesting
The 'Madame' in its name is said to come from the egg resembling a woman's hat, making it a more substantial and visually distinct version of its predecessor, the Croque Monsieur. It's a beloved comfort food that perfectly balances rich, savory flavors with a runny yolk that acts as a natural sauce.