Croque-Monsieur with Poached Eggs

This is a classic brunch recipe that combines the richness of a Croque-Monsieur with the class of poached eggs. Ham, Swiss cheese, and creamy bchamel sauce make a great base for perfectly poached eggs.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of thick white bread
• 4 slices of ham
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Nutmeg optional
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375F 190C

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat

Stir in the flour to make a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color

Gradually whisk in the milk to create a smooth sauce

Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes

Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired

Place two slices of bread on a baking sheet

Top each with a slice of ham, a slice of Swiss cheese, and another slice of bread

Pour the bchamel sauce evenly over the sandwiches, making sure to cover them completely

Bake the sandwiches in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly

While the sandwiches are baking, poach the eggs

Fill a large saucepan with water and bring it to a simmer

Add a splash of vinegar to the simmering water

Gently crack each egg into a small bowl and slide it into the simmering water

Poach for about 3-4 minutes for runny yolks, or longer if you prefer firmer yolks

Carefully remove the poached eggs with a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel

Once the sandwiches are done baking, place a poached egg on top of each Croque-Monsieur

Garnish with fresh parsley, season with additional salt and pepper if needed, and serve immediately

Enjoy your delicious Croque-Monsieur with poached eggs