Picture this: a lazy Sunday morning, the sun casting a golden glow through the kitchen window as the aroma of freshly cooked waffles fills the air. Enter my Savory Croque Madame Waffles—a delightful twist on the classic French sandwich that’s sure to elevate your brunch game! These waffles feature a scrumptious combination of ham and melted Gruyere cheese, all drizzled with a creamy Dijon béchamel sauce and crowned with a perfectly poached egg. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they also offer a quick prep time, making them a perfect choice for any weekend gathering. So, are you ready to indulge in this mouthwatering fusion that will transform how you think about brunch? Let’s dive in!
Why are Croque Madame Waffles a must-try?
Deliciously Decadent: These Croque Madame Waffles combine savory ham and rich Gruyere cheese in a waffle form, giving you the ultimate flavor experience.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a gourmet brunch in no time!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy weekend breakfast or a chic brunch gathering, these waffles will impress your guests and make mealtime special.
Endless Customization: Feel free to swap ingredients—bacon, various cheeses, or even sautéed veggies can create your perfect version.
Comfort Food Elevated: The creamy Dijon béchamel sauce and perfectly poached eggs create a luxurious twist on traditional comfort food that everyone will love.
These waffles are the ideal solution for anyone tired of the same old fast-food options. Why settle for less when you can savor this delectable dish?
Croque Madame Waffles Ingredients
For the Bechamel
• Butter – Adds richness and moisture to the béchamel sauce and helps crisp the waffles. Substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for both the béchamel and the waffle batter. Can be swapped with gluten-free flour blend.
• Whole Milk – Gives creaminess to the béchamel and waffles. Alternatively, use almond milk for a lighter option.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds depth and tanginess to the béchamel. Swap with whole grain mustard for a different flavor profile.
For the Waffle Batter
• Eggs – Lightly beaten to create a fluffy waffle texture. Use flax eggs for a vegan version.
• Shaved Ham – Provides savory flavor. Can be replaced with turkey or bacon for a different taste.
• Gruyere Cheese – Adds creaminess and sharpness; perfect for melting. Substitute with white cheddar or Dutch gouda.
Toppings
• Poached Eggs – Creamy and delicious topping for the waffles. Frying is an alternative if poaching is challenging.
• Chives – Optional garnish for added color and a mild onion flavor. Green onions can be used as an alternative.
Now that you have all the ingredients for these irresistible Croque Madame Waffles, let’s get cooking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Croque Madame Waffles
Step 1: Make the Bechamel
Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually add 1 cup of whole milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer for about 3-5 minutes until thickened, then stir in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.
Step 2: Prepare Waffle Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, beat 2 eggs and whisk in 1 cup of milk and 2 tablespoons of melted butter until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in 1 cup of shaved ham and 1 cup of grated Gruyere cheese, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.
Step 3: Cook Waffles
Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring it’s hot and ready. Lightly grease the waffle plates with non-stick spray or oil to prevent sticking. Pour an appropriate amount of waffle batter into the preheated waffle maker, spreading it evenly. Close the lid and cook for about 4-6 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crisp. Carefully remove the waffles and place them on a warm plate while you repeat with the remaining batter.
Step 4: Assemble
Preheat your broiler while assembling the waffles. Take each cooked waffle and place it on a lined baking tray. Generously drizzle the béchamel sauce over each waffle, then sprinkle additional shaved ham and Gruyere cheese on top. Place the tray under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 5: Serve
Carefully remove the tray from the oven and transfer the Croque Madame Waffles to serving plates. To finish, top each waffle with a perfectly poached egg, allowing the yolk to cascade over the warm béchamel. Garnish with chopped chives for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve immediately for a brunch experience that’s both savory and satisfying.
How to Store and Freeze Croque Madame Waffles
Room Temperature: Store leftover waffles at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 hours to maintain crispiness.
Fridge: Place any uneaten Croque Madame Waffles in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster for the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the waffles in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they can last up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster or oven for a quick meal.
Reheating: For best results, reheat waffles in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore their crispy exterior while warming the delicious fillings inside.
What to Serve with Croque Madame Waffles
Imagine a cozy brunch table filled with delightful bites and sips that perfectly complement your savory Croque Madame Waffles.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the waffles, providing a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender, crisp asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings an earthy flavor and delightful crunch to complement the cheesiness.
- Fresh Fruit Medley: Juicy berries or sliced stone fruits sweeten the meal, balancing savory flavors and uplifting the overall brunch experience.
- Crispy Bacon or Turkey Bacon: Add some irresistible crunch and smokiness, enhancing the savory profile of your delicious waffles.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A vibrant beverage option that adds a zesty kick, cleansing the palate between every rich bite.
- Coffee or Espresso: Warm, rich coffee perfectly pairs with your brunch, elevating the entire experience with its fragrant notes.
- Mini Pastries: Sweet bites like croissants or pain au chocolat provide a delightful textural contrast, appealing to anyone with a sweet tooth.
- Mimosas: Celebrate with this classy drink made from sparkling wine and orange juice, adding a festive touch to your brunch gathering.
- Chocolate Mousse: For a luscious dessert experience, consider this smooth, chocolatey treat that provides a perfect sweet finish to your meal.
Make Ahead Options
Croque Madame Waffles are a fantastic choice for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the waffle batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and combining them with the wet ones just before cooking. Store the batter in the refrigerator tightly covered. Additionally, you can make the béchamel sauce up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate it in an airtight container and reheat it gently on the stove before serving to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your Croque Madame Waffles, simply cook the waffles in the waffle maker and assemble with the warmed béchamel and toppings for a quick, decadent meal, just as delicious as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Croque Madame Waffles
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Preheat Wisely: Make sure your waffle maker is fully preheated before adding batter for even cooking and crispy waffles.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ham and cheese will enhance the flavor of your Croque Madame Waffles—avoid pre-packaged options for the best results.
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Whisk Away Lumps: When making the béchamel, whisk continuously while adding milk to prevent lumps, ensuring a smooth, creamy sauce.
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Customize Your Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, like Swiss or smoked gouda, to find your perfect flavor combination in these savory waffles.
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Egg Poaching Made Easy: If poaching eggs is intimidating, use silicone egg poaching cups; they help create perfectly shaped poached eggs effortlessly.
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Garnish for Flair: Don’t skip the chives—their mild onion flavor and color elevate the presentation and taste of your delicious brunch dish!
Croque Madame Waffles: Fun Variations Await!
Feel free to get creative with your Croque Madame Waffles and tailor them to your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with margarine and whole milk with almond milk to make a dairy-free béchamel and waffle batter.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. This twist brings fresh flavors and adds more veggies to your meal.
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Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like smoked gouda or pepper jack for a new taste experience. Each cheese brings its own unique flair!
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Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the batter for those who love heat. It’s a fantastic way to wake up your palate!
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Sweet & Savory: Drizzle some maple syrup or honey over the finished waffles for a delightful sweet contrast to the savory components.
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Additional Toppings: Try adding avocado slices or a dollop of crème fraîche on top. These additions not only look stunning but also elevate the flavors even more!
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Flavored Mustard: Instead of Dijon, switch to whole grain or honey mustard to introduce a new tangy twist to the béchamel.
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or basil into the batter for an aromatic burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheese.
These variations not only keep your Croque Madame Waffles exciting but also allow you to cater to different dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this brunch delight. Consider pairing them with a refreshing mixed green salad for a well-rounded meal, or explore more about how to store your waffles for later enjoyment to make meal prep hassle-free!
Croque Madame Waffles Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right ingredients for my Croque Madame Waffles?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavor, choose high-quality ham and cheese. Look for Gruyere cheese that’s firm and creamy with a strong aroma, and opt for freshly shaved ham rather than pre-packaged. When selecting eggs, the fresher, the better—organic or free-range are great options for taste and quality.
What is the best way to store leftover Croque Madame Waffles?
The best method is to place any uneaten waffles in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure not to stack them, as this could make them soggy. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or toaster to regain their crispiness!
Can I freeze Croque Madame Waffles, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze your waffles, first cool them completely. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid—about 1-2 hours. Once they’ve firmed up, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. For reheating, pop them into a toaster or an oven set to 375°F (190°C) until warmed through.
What should I do if my waffles turn out soggy?
If you experience soggy waffles, don’t worry! This can happen if the waffle maker isn’t hot enough or if there’s too much liquid in the batter. To remedy soggy waffles in the future, make sure to preheat your waffle maker thoroughly and avoid overmixing the batter, as this can incorporate excess air. If all else fails, you can try putting the soggy waffles in a preheated oven for a few minutes to crisp them up.
Are Croque Madame Waffles safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! To make your Croque Madame Waffles safer for various dietary needs, you can replace ham with turkey or a plant-based option, and sub out Gruyere cheese with vegan cheese or a lactose-free alternative. Additionally, using flax eggs instead of traditional eggs makes this recipe vegan-friendly. Always check labels for allergens if serving guests with specific dietary concerns.
Irresistible Croque Madame Waffles for Your Ultimate Brunch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, cook for 2 minutes, add milk, then mustard; set aside.
- Mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Beat eggs, add milk and melted butter, fold in ham and cheese.
- Preheat waffle maker, grease plates, pour batter, cook for 4-6 minutes until golden.
- Broil waffles with béchamel, ham, and cheese for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve waffles topped with poached eggs and chives.
