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 sweet addition to your brunch table, these Superfood Breakfast Cookies are a healthy hit.
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.
Nutrition
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
French Bread (cubed). Ham and Turkey slices. Swiss Cheese. Eggs/Milk. Raspberry Jam.
Smart Substitutions
Gruyere cheese is a delicious upgrade.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Cube bread. Chop meat. Grease pan.
Cooking Phase
Layer bread, meat, and cheese. Pour egg mixture over. Soak 30 mins (or overnight). Bake at 350°F for 45-50 mins.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
The raspberry jam is essential for the authentic experience. Don’t skip it!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using fresh bread makes it soggy. Use day-old.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Dust heavily with powdered sugar.
Pairing Suggestions
Fruit salad and mimosas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I use just ham?
Yes, but the combo is traditional.
Q2? Can I freeze it?
Yes, baked or unbaked.
Q3? Why Dijon mustard?
It adds a subtle tang that cuts the richness.
| 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.
