It’s hard to believe I ate my first Croque Madame sitting outside the Centre Pompidou in Paris – eight years ago. EIGHT YEARS! Goodness, time really does fly.

The French are known for their refined pallets and delicious dishes so it’s no wonder that this sandwich can pack so much flavor. Best part?! This simplified version can be made in less than 10 minutes. Yup, you really can have it all! A delicious lunch when you are in a time crunch! (Yup, that definitely sounded better in my head…)

Now, you can spend a few more minutes in the kitchen and prepare the traditional Croque Madame, but here is how you can make this simplified version at home!

Croque Madame

Ingredients:

• 2 slices thick cut bread
• 3 slices deli ham
• 1 slice Gruyère cheese
• 1 over-easy egg
• Butter

Recipe:

• Spread and even layer of butter on two slices of bread
• Fill the bread with cheese and ham
• Grill in a skillet until golden brown
• Top with egg and enjoy
• *Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped chives