Name: Melt-In-Your-Mouth Croque Madame Casserole for Brunch Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 8 slices day-old brioche (buttery, slightly sweet base); 8 ounces Gruyère cheese (shredded, can substitute with Emmental or Swiss); 8 ounces turkey ham (sliced, could replace with sautéed mushrooms or spinach); 4 tablespoons butter (essential for richness); 1/4 cup flour (for thickening); 3 cups whole milk (for creaminess); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds tangy flavor); 1 teaspoon nutmeg (for warmth and complexity); 4 large eggs (for perfect runny yolks, add in the last 10 minutes); 1/2 cup heavy cream (for custard-like texture)

As I took my first bite of this creamy, golden Croque Madame Casserole, it felt like I had been transported straight to a cozy French café. This dish transforms the beloved classic sandwich into a comforting bake that’s perfect for brunch gatherings or a delightful breakfast-for-dinner. With buttery brioche soaking up a rich béchamel and topped with melty Gruyère cheese and smoky turkey ham, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, the option to prepare it the night before means you can serve this indulgent delight without the morning rush. Intrigued? Let’s dive into the details and turn this French masterpiece into your next culinary triumph!

Why Will You Adore This Casserole?

Indulgence at its finest: This melt-in-your-mouth Croque Madame Casserole takes the classic comfort food to a new level with its creamy béchamel and buttery brioche.

Time-Saving delight: Prepare in advance and simply bake before serving. It’s perfect for those busy mornings or lazy brunches with friends!

Versatility galore: Substitute ingredients easily, whether you opt for vegetarian options or different breads. You can customize it to suit your tastes!

Crowd-Pleasing standout: Perfectly creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, this dish is guaranteed to impress both family and guests alike.

Comfort Food reimagined: Enjoy the flavors of a French café in your home by crafting this satisfying casserole that feels like a hug on a plate.

Croque Madame Casserole Ingredients

• Get ready to indulge in flavorsome layers that will wow your taste buds!

For the Casserole

Brioche – Utilizes a buttery, slightly sweet base; day-old works best for maximum absorption.
Gruyère Cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor; feel free to swap in Emmental or Swiss cheese for variety.
Turkey Ham – Delivers a smoky essence; for a vegetarian twist, replace with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

For the Béchamel Sauce

Butter – The building block of richness; never skip for the smoothest sauce.
Flour – Essential for thickening; whisk to combine well with melted butter.
Milk – Use whole milk for creaminess; substitute with low-fat or a dairy alternative as desired.
Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy depth to the béchamel; it’s a secret flavor booster!
Nutmeg – A pinch brings warmth and complexity; it’s a delightful surprise when added.

For the Eggs

Eggs – The crowning glory of this dish; for perfect runny yolks, add them in the last 10 minutes of baking.

Embrace the joy of crafting this Croque Madame Casserole!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Croque Madame Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it prepares your Croque Madame Casserole for even baking. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and ensure your workspace is organized, setting you up for a smooth cooking experience.

Step 2: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in ¼ cup of flour, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes until you achieve a light golden color. Gradually add in 3 cups of whole milk while continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens and bubbles gently. Mix in a teaspoon each of Dijon mustard and freshly grated nutmeg for added flavor depth.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
In a large baking dish, layer half of your day-old brioche slices, covering the bottom evenly. Next, add a layer of 8 ounces of sliced turkey ham, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded Gruyère cheese. Pour half of the béchamel sauce over these layers to bind everything together, ensuring it seeps between the ingredients for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Add Remaining Layers
Repeat the layering by placing the remaining brioche slices on top, followed by the rest of the turkey ham and Gruyère cheese. Pour the remaining béchamel sauce generously over the top, ensuring the entire casserole is well-covered. This creamy sauce will soak into the brioche, creating a deliciously rich texture as it bakes.

Step 5: Whisk Together Eggs and Cream
In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs and ½ cup of heavy cream until well combined. This mixture will create a custard-like texture for the top layer of your Croque Madame Casserole. Pour this egg and cream mixture evenly over the assembled casserole, allowing it to seep into the layers below for rich flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and has a beautiful golden-brown top. For that indulgent touch, add a few eggs on top of the casserole in the last 10 minutes of baking, just until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Croque Madame Casserole is out of the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, cutting into generous squares and offering each bowl with a perfectly runny egg on top. This comforting dish is best shared with loved ones, making for a delightful brunch experience!

What to Serve with Croque Madame Casserole

Pair this indulgent dish with delightful sides to enhance your dining experience, making every bite even more memorable.

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds balance to every forkful.
Roasted Asparagus: The subtle crunch and grassy notes of asparagus elevate the savory flavors, adding a beautiful color contrast to your plate.
Herbed Potato Wedges: Crispy, seasoned potato wedges bring a satisfying crunch to accompany the creamy casserole, ensuring a comforting yet hearty meal.
Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed garlic-infused spinach provides a vibrant, nutrient-packed side that complements the creamy béchamel beautifully.
Chilled Fruit Salad: Fresh, juicy fruits lend a refreshing sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the savory richness of the casserole.
Sparkling Wine or Mimosa: A glass of sparkling wine or a mimosa brightens your brunch affair and adds a festive touch, effortlessly enhancing the occasion.

Make Ahead Options

These Croque Madame Casserole preparations are a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, layering the brioche, turkey ham, and béchamel sauce without the eggs. Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its quality. Alternatively, you can prep the casserole completely and freeze it for up to 3 days, but be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply whisk together eggs and cream, pour over the casserole, and bake for a flavorful brunch that tastes as delicious as if it were made fresh that day!

Croque Madame Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to switch things up and make this Croque Madame Casserole uniquely yours—your taste buds will thank you!

Bread Substitution: Try whole wheat or sourdough for a healthier twist. These options offer a heartier texture that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Dairy Alternatives: Swap whole milk for low-fat milk mixed with Greek yogurt to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor. This substitution keeps the béchamel creamy and satisfying.
Cheese Options: Use reduced-fat cheeses or a blend of Parmesan to lighten the dish while still delivering that cheesy goodness. The nutty flavors will enhance every bite!
Vegetarian Delight: Replace turkey ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious take on this classic dish. The earthiness of mushrooms adds depth!
Custard-Free: For a Croque Monsieur version, simply leave out the eggs. Your casserole will still be deliciously decadent without that runny yolk on top.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the béchamel for a hint of heat. This subtle kick elevates the overall flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or chives into the béchamel for an aromatic touch. These fresh notes brighten the dish and add a gourmet flair.
Individual Servings: For a fun twist, divide the mixture into ramekins before baking for beautifully portioned servings that are perfect for brunch gatherings.

Embrace these variations and make the dish your own! You can also explore more delightful brunch ideas in my posts about Savory Quiche Recipes or Easy Breakfast Casseroles to expand your culinary repertoire!

Expert Tips for Croque Madame Casserole

Bread Choice: Use slightly stale brioche for optimal absorption; fresh bread may lead to a soggy texture, so lightly toast if necessary.
Layering Technique: Ensure even layers of ham and cheese to maximize flavor; avoid clumping as it can result in uneven cooking.
Custard Consistency: Whisk eggs and cream thoroughly to achieve a smooth custard texture; don’t skip the last-minute egg addition for that perfect runny yolk!
Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate; add eggs just before baking to retain freshness.
Freezing Tips: To freeze, prepare the casserole without baking it first, then store it for up to two months. Simply bake straight from frozen while adding extra time as needed.

Storage Tips for Croque Madame Casserole

• Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving the Croque Madame Casserole at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat portions gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

• Freezer: To freeze, assemble the casserole without baking and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored for up to 2 months; bake directly from frozen, increasing the baking time.

• Reheating: When ready to enjoy, cover with foil and reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Ensure the casserole is heated through before serving for the best taste!

Croque Madame Casserole Recipe FAQs

What type of bread should I use for the Croque Madame Casserole?
Using day-old brioche is best as it absorbs the béchamel sauce beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying texture. If you don’t have brioche, you can also use challah, French bread, or even thick-cut white bread. Just avoid fresh bread as it may lead to a soggy casserole.

How long can I store leftovers of the Croque Madame Casserole?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat portions in the oven or microwave—adding a splash of milk helps keep the dish creamy and delicious!

Can I freeze the Croque Madame Casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the casserole without baking it first. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, bake it straight from frozen, adding extra time if needed.

How can I achieve perfectly runny yolks on top of the casserole?
The secret is to add the eggs during the last 10 minutes of baking. Firstly, whisk together your eggs and cream, then pour the mixture over the assembled casserole. This timing allows the whites to set while keeping the yolks beautifully soft and runny. Enjoy that delightful burst when you dig in!

What important dietary considerations should I keep in mind?
If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this casserole. For vegetarian options, replace the turkey ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers. Additionally, substitute dairy ingredients with low-fat or dairy-free alternatives to cater to lactose intolerance or dietary preferences.