As I was rearranging my brunch recipes, I stumbled upon a delightful twist that instantly ignited my appetite: Croque Madame Waffles. This fusion of classic French flavors and comforting breakfast vibes turns your morning routine into a gourmet experience, and trust me, you won’t be able to resist that first bite! Imagine warm, crispy waffles topped with layers of savory ham, melted Gruyère cheese, and a luscious homemade béchamel sauce—pure bliss on a plate.
With the first hint of Dijon mustard wafting through the kitchen, I couldn’t help but think how this dish could transform an ordinary weekend into something extraordinary. Whether you’re hosting a casual brunch with friends or simply treating yourself to a leisurely Saturday morning, these waffles are not only delicious but surprisingly easy to whip up. Let’s dive into this indulgent recipe that brings comfort food to a whole new level!
Why are Croque Madame Waffles a must-try?
Unique Twist: These waffles elevate a classic French dish, offering a savory yet sweet experience that is sure to impress!
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this gourmet meal in under an hour.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for brunch gatherings, everyone will love diving into these crispy, cheesy bites.
Hearty and Satisfying: Layered with rich cheese and savory ham, they’re a filling treat that leaves you refreshed, not sluggish.
Customize: Add your favorite toppings such as poached eggs or fresh herbs for a personal touch. You can also explore more delightful variations in our brunch recipes collection.
Croque Madame Waffles Ingredients
Get ready to create this delectable dish with these essential ingredients!
For the Waffle Batter
• All-purpose flour – Essential for a fluffy yet crispy waffle texture.
• Baking powder – Helps the waffles rise, creating that perfect lightness.
• Salt – Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
• Eggs – Adds richness and binds the ingredients together.
• Whole milk – Keeps the waffles moist and flavorful.
• Melted butter – Contributes to a deliciously rich flavor while ensuring crispiness.
For the Filling and Toppings
• Shaved ham – Adds savory, hearty goodness; feel free to use your favorite variety!
• Gruyère cheese – Melts beautifully to create a gooey, flavorful topping that complements the ham perfectly.
• Dijon mustard – Adds that subtle tangy kick in the béchamel sauce, making these Croque Madame Waffles stand out.
• Eggs (poached or fried) – Provides a delightful finishing touch that gives brunch vibes a luxurious feel.
• Chives (optional) – A sprinkle of freshness and color that elevates your presentation.
Each ingredient is a step towards the perfect brunch creation!
How to Make Croque Madame Waffles
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**Melt **: 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.
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Whisk: Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. It should be smooth and creamy!
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Thicken: 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.
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Preheat: Time to preheat the waffle maker to your desired setting, ensuring it’s hot and ready for that delicious batter.
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Combine: In a large bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.
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Mix: Add the lightly beaten eggs, milk, and melted butter. Stir just until everything is combined, taking care not to overmix.
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Fold: Gently fold in the diced ham and shredded Gruyère cheese, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Cook: 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.
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Layer: Once cooked, transfer the waffles to a parchment-lined baking tray. Top each waffle with about ⅙ of the béchamel sauce.
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Broil: 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!
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Serve: 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.
Optional: Serve with a side of mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Croque Madame Waffles Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make these waffles your own with these delightful ideas!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a scrumptious alternative that everyone can enjoy. There’s no need to miss out on the deliciousness!
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Smoky Flavor: Add a hint of smoked paprika to the batter for a bit of depth and a delightful surprise with every bite. This will elevate the taste profile beautifully!
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a fresh, plant-based twist that still packs a flavor punch. Creamy béchamel pairs incredibly with these greens.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the waffle batter for those who crave a little heat. It’s like a fiesta on your plate!
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Cheese Swap: Experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for varied cheesy delights. Each option brings a unique texture and taste to the dish.
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Savory Herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into your batter for an aromatic burst that elevates the flavors. The scent will be simply divine!
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Sweet Touch: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup over your waffles before serving, creating a sweet and savory harmony that’s undeniably satisfying. Brunch never tasted this good!
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Egg Styles: Go beyond poached or fried eggs—try scrambled eggs with fresh herbs instead for a fluffier topping that adds a different texture to your dish.
Enjoy exploring these tantalizing variations tailored to your taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Croque Madame Waffles are a perfect meal prep solution for busy mornings! You can prepare the waffle batter and béchamel sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator, which helps maintain its fluffy texture. The béchamel sauce can be made ahead as well and refrigerated; just remember to cover it to prevent a skin from forming. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the béchamel on the stovetop while you cook the waffles according to the recipe. Top with ham and cheese, broil, and finish with an egg for a delightful brunch experience that feels fresh and indulgent, saving you time without sacrificing taste!
How to Store and Freeze Croque Madame Waffles
Fridge: Store leftover waffles in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze waffles individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply pop the frozen waffles in the toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy.
Serving Suggestion: Top reheated waffles with fresh béchamel and a poached egg for a deliciously comforting meal!
What to Serve with Croque Madame Waffles?
As you savor the delightful layers of savory goodness, think about enhancing your brunch experience with just the right accompaniments.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light, peppery arugula salad balances the richness of the waffles, adding a refreshing crunch that brightens every bite.
- Herbed Potato Wedges: Crispy, roasted potatoes with a hint of rosemary provide a hearty, comforting texture that complements the waffles beautifully.
- Fresh Fruit Medley: A colorful bowl of seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi offers a sweet contrast that refreshes the palate between savory bites.
- Sparkling Wine: A bubbly glass of Prosecco or Champagne elevates your brunch, appealing to the festive atmosphere and enhancing flavors at the same time.
- Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche Lorraine or a veggie quiche adds another layer of complexity to your brunch, enriching flavor profiles with creamy fillings.
- Vanilla Yogurt with Honey: Creamy yogurt drizzled with honey feels luxurious, offering a light yet rich option that balances the heaviness of the waffles.
Each of these pairings will create a delightful and satisfying dining experience, making your Croque Madame Waffles the star of the brunch table!
Expert Tips for Croque Madame Waffles
• Smooth Béchamel: Ensure you whisk continuously when adding milk to the roux. This prevents lumps and keeps the béchamel sauce silky smooth.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the batter, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense waffles. Keep them light and airy!
• Preheat Properly: Make sure your waffle maker is fully preheated before cooking. This ensures a crispy exterior—no soggy waffles here!
• Cheese Choice: Use Gruyère cheese for the best flavor and meltability. Feel free to mix in other cheeses for a unique twist!
• Broil Carefully: Keep a close eye while broiling; cheese can melt quickly and go from golden to burnt in a flash.
• Egg Cooking Tip: You can prepare poached eggs in advance. Just reheat them in warm water before serving your delicious Croque Madame Waffles.
Croque Madame Waffles Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right ingredients for Croque Madame Waffles?
Absolutely! When choosing ingredients, select ripe, flavorful ham that isn’t too salty for the best results. Look for Gruyère cheese that’s smooth and creamy; it should have a lovely aroma and not feature any dark spots. And when it comes to eggs, fresh is key—check the sell-by date and choose eggs that feel full when you pick them up.
How should I store leftover Croque Madame Waffles?
Very! Store your leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to enjoy them beyond that, it’s best to freeze them. Just remember to wrap each waffle individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months!
Can I freeze Croque Madame Waffles, and how do I reheat them?
Certainly! Freezing these waffles is a great way to save time for future cozy brunches. First, let cooked waffles cool completely. Then wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. To reheat, simply pop a frozen waffle in the toaster or heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my béchamel sauce is too thick or lumpy?
If your béchamel is too thick, don’t worry! Start by whisking in a little more milk over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. If you end up with lumps, simply strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve. This will leave you with a silky smooth sauce perfect for drizzling over your waffles. If thickening happens again, it might be helpful to keep the heat lower when cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with Croque Madame Waffles?
Absolutely! If you’re preparing these for others, check for any dietary restrictions. You can opt for gluten-free flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities, or use dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free alternative. Just be cautious with the ham, as it can contain allergens. For pets, it’s best to keep these luxurious waffles out of reach as they might not be suitable for their diet!
Irresistible Croque Madame Waffles for a Cozy Brunch Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- 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.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. It should be smooth and creamy!
- 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.
- Preheat the waffle maker to your desired setting, ensuring it’s hot and ready for that delicious batter.
- In a large bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.
- Add the lightly beaten eggs, milk, and melted butter. Stir just until everything is combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the diced ham and shredded Gruyère cheese, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- 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.
- Once cooked, transfer the waffles to a parchment-lined baking tray. Top each waffle with about ⅙ of the béchamel sauce.
- 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!
- 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.