Ingredients:
- 3 TBSP unsalted butter
- 1/4 c flour
- 3 c whole milk
- nutmeg
- salt and pepper
- 8 slices thick bread
- 12 oz ham
- 10 oz gruyere, coarsely grated
- 4 whole eggs (madame)
Directions:
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter and whisk in flour until blended but not colored. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly until thickened – about 10 min. Season to taste with nutmeg, salt and pepper. Set aside. (can be made and refrigerated covered ahead of time)
- Preheat oven to 400. Place bread slices in a single layer and spread each evenly to the edges with bechamel. Divide ham amongst 4 slices and the grated cheese on all 8 – to within 1/4 inch of the edges.
- Place the slices with cheese on the slices with ham and transfer to pan lined with parchment paper.
- Bake until cheese is melted and golden brown – 10-15 minutes.
- For madame, fry eggs sunny side up and place on each sandwich. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.