The Monte Cristo is a famous sandwich that sits beautifully between breakfast and lunch. This Easy Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole takes all those flavors—ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and French toast—and bakes them into a crowd-pleasing dish.
It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of raspberry jam, it feels fancy but is incredibly simple to assemble. Ideal for holiday brunches or baby showers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sweet & Savory
The salty ham and nutty Swiss cheese contrast perfectly with the sweet custard and jam.
Feed a Crowd
Much easier than frying individual sandwiches. For a healthy, sweet treat to go alongside this indulgent bake, these Nut & Seed Energy Cookies are perfect for grazing.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread, cubed
- 1/2 lb deli ham, chopped
- 1/2 lb deli turkey, chopped
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Layer bread, meat, and cheese in greased dish.
- Whisk eggs, milk, and mustard. Pour over.
- Soak 30 mins.
- Bake at 350°F for 45-50 mins.
- Serve with powdered sugar and raspberry jam.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
French Bread (cubed). Ham and Turkey slices (chopped). Swiss Cheese (shredded). Eggs. Milk. Dijon Mustard. Raspberry Jam (for serving). Powdered Sugar.
Smart Substitutions
Gruyere cheese is a delicious upgrade from Swiss. You can use just ham if you don’t have turkey.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cube the bread. Chop the deli meats. Shred the cheese.
Cooking Phase
Layer half the bread in the dish. Top with the meats and cheese. Add the remaining bread. Whisk eggs, milk, and Dijon mustard. Pour over the casserole. Press down gently. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight). Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and set.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
The Dijon mustard in the custard adds a subtle tang that cuts through the richness—don’t skip it!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using fresh bread can make it soggy. Use day-old bread or toast the cubes slightly before assembling.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Dust heavily with powdered sugar right before serving. Place a bowl of warm raspberry jam on the side.
Pairing Suggestions
Fresh fruit salad and mimosas are the classic accompaniments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I make this ahead?
Yes, it is designed to be assembled the night before.
Q2? Can I freeze it?
Yes, bake it first, then freeze portions.
Q3? Do I have to use Swiss cheese?
No, but it gives the authentic Monte Cristo flavor. Provolone is a mild alternative.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Total Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 14g |
| Cholesterol | 210mg |
| Sodium | 900mg |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 24g |
Conclusion
The Easy Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a brunch superstar. Elegant, easy, and delicious, it brings a touch of class to your morning table.
