The Monte Cristo is a diner classic that sits perfectly between breakfast and lunch. This casserole version takes the beloved flavors of the sandwich—ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and French toast—and bakes them into an easy, crowd-pleasing strata.
It offers the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The salty meats and nutty cheese are baked in a sweet egg custard, then finished with powdered sugar and raspberry jam. It feels indulgent and fancy, but is incredibly simple to put together for a holiday brunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sweet & Savory
If you love bacon with maple syrup, you will love this flavor profile.
Feed the Family
It’s much easier than frying individual sandwiches. For a healthy energy boost to start the morning alongside this bake, try these Nut & Seed Energy Cookies.
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, meats, and cheese in greased dish.
- Whisk eggs, milk, and mustard. Pour over.
- Refrigerate 30 mins to soak.
- Bake at 350°F for 45-50 mins.
- Serve with powdered sugar and jam.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
French Bread (cubed). Deli Ham and Turkey. Swiss Cheese (shredded). Eggs. Milk. Dijon Mustard. Raspberry Jam. Powdered Sugar.
Smart Substitutions
Gruyere is a great upgrade from Swiss. You can use solely ham if preferred.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Grease a 9×13 dish. Cube the bread. Chop the deli meat. Shred the cheese.
Cooking Phase
Layer half the bread, meats, and cheese. Top with remaining bread. Whisk eggs, milk, and Dijon mustard. Pour over the casserole. Press down. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes until golden.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
The soak is important! Let the bread absorb the liquid so the inside becomes custardy like French toast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using fresh, soft bread can make it mushy. Use day-old bread or toast the cubes first.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Dust generously with powdered sugar. Serve with a dollop of raspberry jam.
Pairing Suggestions
Fresh fruit salad and coffee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I freeze it?
Yes, bake it first, then freeze slices.
Q2? Do I have to use jam?
It’s traditional, but maple syrup works too.
Q3? Is it sweet?
It’s mostly savory with a sweet finish from the toppings.
| 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
This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole brings brunch vibes to your kitchen with zero stress. Delicious, unique, and satisfying.
