Description
A flaky and savory twist on the French classic, this Puff Pastry Croque Madame features Emmental cheese, smoked beef, and baked egg on golden puff pastry.
Ingredients
2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
1 egg plus 1 tsp water (for egg wash)
6 oz Emmental cheese, shredded
8 slices smoked beef
8 eggs
Kosher salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste
Chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll out thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut into 8 even squares.
3. Transfer pastry squares to baking sheets and prick the centers lightly with a fork.
4. Brush the edges with egg wash made from 1 egg mixed with 1 teaspoon of water.
5. Evenly sprinkle shredded Emmental cheese in the center of each square.
6. Add a slice of smoked beef on top of the cheese on each square.
7. Bake for 15–18 minutes until pastry is puffed and golden.
8. Remove from the oven and gently press the center of each square with a spoon to create a well.
9. Crack one egg into the center of each square, season with salt and pepper.
10. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10–12 minutes until egg whites are set.
11. Remove from oven, garnish with chopped chives, and serve warm.
Notes
Thaw the puff pastry in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for 30–40 minutes.
Watch the pastry closely during baking, as oven performance may vary.
To keep yolks soft, avoid overbaking during the final egg phase.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French