Bacon Croque Madame Brunch Ring Recipe| Recipes.net

Looking for a delicious and mouthwatering brunch recipe? Look no further. This bacon croque madame brunch ring is a heavenly fusion of classic French cuisine with a touch of American comfort food. It's a perfect way to level up your brunch game, serving up a rich and satisfying dish that marries creamy béchamel sauce, crispy bacon, and melty mozzarella cheese in a single bite.

Photos of Bacon Croque Madame Brunch Ring Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are staples that can be found in a typical kitchen, there are a few items you might need to add to your shopping list. Be prepared to find Dijon mustard and a good quality mozzarella cheese at your local supermarket. Dijon mustard offers a smooth and slightly spicy flavor while mozzarella provides a creamy and stretchy texture. Both ingredients are essential to give your croque madame that authentic touch.

Bacon Croque Madame Brunch Ring Ingredients

Salted butter: It's used to grease the baking dish and adds a savory flavor.

Bacon: It gives the dish a smoky, savory taste and a delightful crunch.

All purpose flour: It's used to thicken the béchamel sauce.

Black pepper: It adds a mild heat to the dish.

Salt: It enhances the other flavors in the dish.

Milk: It's the liquid base for the béchamel sauce.

Dijon mustard: It gives the béchamel sauce a slightly tangy and spicy flavor.

White bread: It forms the body of the brunch ring.

Ham: It adds a salty, savory flavor.

Mozzarella cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and gives a creamy texture to the dish.

Fresh chives: They provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Eggs: They're served sunny-side up on the side of the brunch ring.

One reader, Indira Willson says:

This bacon croque madame brunch ring recipe is a game-changer! The combination of bacon, ham, and cheese in a beautiful ring is a showstopper. The flavors are rich and indulgent, making it the perfect brunch centerpiece. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious and impressive dish.

Indira Willson

Techniques Required for Making a Delicious Brunch Ring

How to make béchamel sauce: A creamy white sauce made by whisking together butter, flour, and milk, then seasoned with salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard until thickened.

How to assemble the brunch ring: Layer the bread, ham, cheese, and bacon in a bundt pan, then bake until golden brown. Invert the ring, brush with béchamel sauce, sprinkle with cheese and bacon, and broil until the cheese is melted and browned.

How to cook bacon: Cook the bacon in a pan over high heat until browned, then transfer to a paper towel to drain.

How to roll out bread: Flatten the bread slices with a rolling pin to make them easier to work with for the brunch ring.

How to broil: Place the brunch ring under the broiler for a few minutes to melt and brown the cheese on top.

How to serve: Slice the brunch ring and serve warm with the remaining béchamel sauce and sunny-side up eggs.

How To Make Bacon Croque Madame Brunch Ring

Whip up a unique brunch meal with this filling croque madame, a French hot sandwich made of ham and cheese! This version is bundt-styled to serve a crowd.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

¼cupsalted butter,(½ stick)
12bacon strips,chopped
¼cupall purpose flour
1tspblack pepper
1tspsalt
4cupsmilk,warm
1tbspdijon mustard
15white bread slices
17ham slices
3cupsmozzarella cheese,shredded, divided
1tspfresh chives,chopped, for garnish
8eggs,made sunny side up, for serving

Instructions

In a medium pan over high heat, cook the bacon for about 12 minutes until browned. Transfer the bacon bits to a paper towel to drain and leave the bacon grease in the pan.
To the pan, add the flour, pepper, and salt and whisk to combine for 5 minutes. Add the milk and Dijon mustard and cook for about 5 minutes until thickened. Remove the béchamel sauce from the heat and cover to keep warm.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a bundt pan with the salted butter. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
With a rolling pin, roll out the bread to flatten and cut 8 slices in half.
Arrange the 7 whole slices around the outer sides of the bundt pan and 4 half slices around the inner ring. Place 5 slices of ham over the bread. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella and ⅓ of the chopped bacon on top of the ham.
Place 6 half slices of bread on top of the bacon layer. Top with 8 slices of ham, another cup of mozzarella, and another ⅓ of the chopped bacon. Top with another 4 slices of ham. Place 6 half slices of bread on top of the ham.
Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Invert the ring onto the prepared baking sheet, remove the bundt pan, and brush the top of the ring with béchamel sauce. Sprinkle with the remaining cup of mozzarella and the rest of the bacon.
Broil for 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and browned.
Sprinkle the ring with parsley. Transfer the rest of the béchamel sauce to a small bowl and place in the middle of the ring.
Slice the ring and serve warm with the sauce and sunny-side up eggs. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 936.57kcal
Fat: 62.08g
Saturated Fat: 30.40g
Trans Fat: 0.32g
Monounsaturated Fat: 21.46g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.16g
Carbohydrates: 41.21g
Fiber: 3.23g
Sugar: 10.99g
Protein: 52.07g
Cholesterol: 336.77mg
Sodium: 2116.96mg
Calcium: 816.30mg
Potassium: 660.64mg
Iron: 3.92mg
Vitamin A: 370.68µg
Vitamin C: 2.57mg

Crucial Technique for a Perfect Bacon Croque Madame Brunch Ring

When preparing the béchamel sauce, it's crucial to whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming. The sauce should be smooth and creamy. Also, when cooking the bacon, aim for a crispy texture as it will add a delightful crunch to the final dish. Lastly, when arranging the bread slices in the bundt pan, make sure they overlap slightly. This will ensure that the ring holds together when it's inverted onto the baking sheet.

Time-Saving Tips for Making a Bacon Croque Madame Brunch Ring

Prep ahead: Prepare the béchamel sauce and cook the bacon in advance to save time on the day of making the brunch ring.

Use pre-cooked bacon: Consider using pre-cooked bacon to save time and effort during the preparation process.

Opt for pre-sliced ingredients: Choose pre-sliced ham and cheese to minimize prep time and make the assembly process quicker and more convenient.

Organize ingredients: Before starting the recipe, organize all the ingredients and tools needed to streamline the cooking process and avoid any last-minute hassle.

Multi-task: While the brunch ring is baking, use that time to prepare the sunny-side up eggs or any additional side dishes to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Bacon Croque Madame Brunch Ring Recipe

bacon - Substitute with smoked turkey or tempeh bacon: Smoked turkey or tempeh bacon can provide a similar smoky flavor and texture as bacon, while being a healthier alternative.
all purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all purpose flour: For those with gluten sensitivities, using gluten-free all purpose flour can be a suitable substitute without compromising the texture of the dish.
ham - Substitute with smoked turkey or chicken slices: Smoked turkey or chicken slices can offer a similar smoky and savory flavor as ham, while being a leaner and healthier option.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with cheddar or Swiss cheese: Cheddar or Swiss cheese can provide a rich and creamy texture similar to mozzarella, while adding a slightly sharper flavor to the dish.
eggs - Substitute with tofu or egg replacer: Tofu or egg replacer can be used as a vegan-friendly alternative to eggs, providing a similar binding and moisture-retaining function in the recipe.

Essential Tools for Making a Bacon Croque Madame Brunch Ring

Medium pan: A medium-sized cooking vessel used for sautéing, simmering, and boiling ingredients.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and stirring ingredients together.
Rolling pin: A cylindrical tool used to flatten and shape dough for baking.
Bundt pan: A round baking pan with a hollow center, typically used for making ring-shaped cakes.
Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used for baking and roasting foods in the oven.

Storing and Freezing Your Brunch Ring Creation

Allow the bacon croque madame brunch ring to cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, wrap the cooled ring tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, wrap the cooled ring tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place the wrapped ring in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
The frozen bacon croque madame brunch ring will keep for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
To reheat from the refrigerator, place the ring on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
To reheat from frozen, remove the ring from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, follow the reheating instructions above.
If you prefer a crispier texture, you can also reheat the ring in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the outside is crispy.
Note that the eggs and béchamel sauce should be prepared fresh when serving the reheated ring for the best taste and texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Bacon Croque Madame Brunch Ring

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the leftover bacon croque madame brunch ring on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the ring loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating to crisp up the exterior.
For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. Slice the leftover brunch ring into individual portions and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Heat each portion on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as the bread may become soggy.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the bacon croque madame brunch ring. Cut the ring into individual slices and place them in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature to 350°F (180°C) and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until crispy and heated through.
For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cut the leftover brunch ring into slices and place them in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through and slightly crispy.
If you want to reheat the béchamel sauce separately, transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in the microwave for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Interesting Trivia About Croque Madame

The Croque Madame is a classic French dish that originated in Paris. It is a variation of the Croque Monsieur, a grilled ham and cheese sandwich, but with the addition of a fried or poached egg on top. This dish is typically served as a brunch item and is known for its rich and indulgent flavors. The combination of creamy béchamel sauce, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese makes it a popular choice for a leisurely weekend brunch. The Croque Madame is a delightful and satisfying dish that is sure to impress your guests with its delicious flavors and elegant presentation.

Is Making a Bacon Croque Madame Brunch Ring Cost-Effective?

This bacon croque madame brunch ring recipe offers a delightful and indulgent dining experience. While the ingredients may require a moderate investment, the dish's versatility and ability to serve a family of four make it a cost-effective option for a special occasion or weekend treat. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $30, making it an affordable choice for a memorable brunch. The rich flavors and impressive presentation earn this recipe a solid 8/10 rating, making it a worthwhile addition to any culinary repertoire.

Is This Brunch Ring Healthy or Unhealthy?

This bacon croque madame brunch ring recipe, while indulgent and delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe is high in saturated fat due to the generous amounts of butter, bacon, and cheese used. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
The white bread used in the recipe is a refined carbohydrate, which can cause blood sugar spikes and provide little nutritional value.
The recipe is also high in sodium, with the bacon, ham, and cheese all contributing to the overall salt content.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter, bacon, and cheese used in the recipe. You can still achieve a flavorful result with smaller quantities of these ingredients.
Replace some or all of the white bread with whole grain bread, which is higher in fiber and nutrients.
Use a leaner protein source, such as turkey bacon or ham, to reduce the overall fat content.
Incorporate more vegetables into the recipe, such as sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers, to increase the nutritional value and add more flavor and texture.
Serve the brunch ring with a side salad or fresh fruit to balance out the meal and provide additional nutrients.

Editor's Opinion on This Brunch Ring Recipe

The bacon croque madame brunch ring recipe is a delightful and indulgent dish that combines the rich flavors of bacon, ham, and cheese with the creamy béchamel sauce. The layers of bread, ham, and cheese create a beautiful and impressive presentation, perfect for a special brunch or gathering. The addition of the sunny-side up eggs adds a touch of elegance and richness to the dish. Overall, this recipe is a creative and delicious twist on the classic croque madame, sure to impress and satisfy any brunch crowd.

Enhance Your Bacon Croque Madame Brunch Ring Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a hint of garlic and lemon zest.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic and topped with chives for a burst of flavor.

Mixed Berry Salad: A refreshing salad featuring a mix of juicy berries, crisp greens, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.

Butternut Squash Soup: Velvety smooth soup made with roasted butternut squash, warm spices, and a drizzle of cream for a cozy addition to your meal.

Similar Brunch Ring Recipes to Try

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty stew is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with tender beef, potatoes, and carrots, it's a comforting meal that will warm you up from the inside out.

Mango Coconut Panna Cotta: Indulge in this creamy and tropical dessert that combines the sweetness of mango with the richness of coconut. It's a refreshing and elegant treat that's perfect for any occasion.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This vibrant and nutritious salad features a colorful mix of roasted vegetables, fluffy quinoa, and a zesty vinaigrette. It's a satisfying dish that's both wholesome and delicious.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Brunch Ring

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baking until golden and bubbly. Serve these decadent bites at your next gathering for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Whip up a creamy and flavorful spinach and artichoke dip, perfect for dipping bread, chips, or veggies. This classic appetizer is always a hit at parties and gatherings, and is sure to leave your guests coming back for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of a warm, gooey chocolate lava cake. The contrast between the molten center and the slightly crisp exterior creates a delightful sensory experience that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Tiramisu: Transport yourself to the streets of Italy with a classic tiramisu. Layers of delicate ladyfingers soaked in coffee and layered with a creamy mascarpone mixture, dusted with cocoa powder, create a dessert that is both elegant and comforting.

Why trust this Bacon Croque Madame Brunch Ring Recipe:

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, featuring bacon and ham for a savory punch, complemented by a creamy béchamel sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof result, and the use of dijon mustard adds a delightful depth of flavor. With the added touch of fresh chives and a side of sunny-side up eggs, this brunch ring promises a delightful and indulgent experience for any occasion. Trust in the combination of classic ingredients and expert techniques to elevate your brunch game.

Share your thoughts on the Bacon Croque Madame Brunch Ring recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

What is a croque madame brunch ring?

A croque madame brunch ring is a delicious and visually stunning dish made with layers of bread, ham, cheese, and bacon, all baked in a bundt pan. It's a twist on the classic French croque madame sandwich, perfect for brunch or a special occasion.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the croque madame brunch ring ahead of time. You can assemble the ring and refrigerate it overnight. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it according to the recipe instructions.

Can I customize the ingredients in the recipe?

Absolutely! You can customize the ingredients to suit your taste. For example, you can use different types of cheese, add vegetables, or even substitute the bacon with sausage. Feel free to get creative and make it your own.

What can I serve with the croque madame brunch ring?

The croque madame brunch ring is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad, fresh fruit, or roasted potatoes to complete the meal. It pairs well with a mimosa or a cup of freshly brewed coffee.

Can I freeze the croque madame brunch ring?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftovers. Simply wrap the individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven until heated through.