Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

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Fluffy, golden, and irresistibly savory-sweet, the Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a brilliant way to start your day with something indulgent and unforgettable. Inspired by the classic sandwich, this baked version layers rich slices of ham and turkey with gooey Swiss cheese between buttery pieces of bread soaked in a lightly sweet custard. Baked to perfection and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, it delivers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors in every bite.

Perfect for brunch gatherings, holiday mornings, or even a unique weeknight dinner, this casserole has all the soul-satisfying comfort of a diner favorite—with the ease of a make-ahead dish. It takes the best parts of a Monte Cristo (the creamy melted cheese, savory meats, and touch of sweetness) and turns them into a no-fuss bake that feeds a crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

This casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It blends the classic Monte Cristo flavor profile with a French toast-style bake, giving you that savory-sweet harmony in a dish that’s hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a brunch table or prepping breakfast for the week, it’s a reliable go-to that’s easy to customize. Plus, it feels special without requiring fancy ingredients.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• 9×13-inch Baking Dish – This size is ideal for layering and evenly cooking the casserole.
• Mixing Bowls – Useful for whisking together the custard mixture.
• Whisk – Ensures your eggs and milk blend smoothly for the custard base.
• Bread Knife or Serrated Knife – Makes slicing bread easier and cleaner.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accuracy in proportions makes a big difference in both flavor and texture.
• Foil – Helps cover the casserole during the initial baking phase to prevent over-browning.

Each tool plays a role in ensuring that the dish bakes evenly, holds together well, and delivers the ideal creamy texture inside with a crispy, browned top.

Preparation Tips

Choose a thick, sturdy bread such as brioche or challah—something that can absorb the custard without falling apart. Slightly stale bread works even better, as it holds its shape after soaking. When layering the meats and cheese, try to distribute them evenly for consistent bites. Don’t skip the rest time before baking if you have it; letting the assembled casserole sit allows the custard to soak thoroughly into the bread. Finally, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds that authentic Monte Cristo finish and a touch of sweetness that makes the whole dish sing.

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Ingredients for this Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

• 1 loaf (14–16 oz) brioche or challah bread, sliced thickly and slightly stale
• 8 oz sliced deli ham
• 8 oz sliced deli turkey
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère for a deeper flavor)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional but adds depth)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for greasing the baking dish)
• Powdered sugar, for garnish
• Optional: raspberry jam or preserves, for serving

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Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with unsalted butter. This prevents sticking and helps form a lightly crisp bottom layer. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if baking immediately.

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Step 2: Slice and Layer the Bread

Cut your bread into thick slices, about 1-inch thick. If it’s very fresh, let it sit out for a few hours to dry slightly. Place a single layer of bread slices in the bottom of the baking dish, slightly overlapping if needed to fully cover the base.

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Step 3: Layer the Meats and Cheese

Evenly distribute half the ham slices over the bread layer, followed by half the turkey, then sprinkle on half the shredded cheese. Repeat the layers again: bread, ham, turkey, and cheese. This creates a rich, flavorful center.

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Step 4: Make the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Whisk until well combined and smooth. This custard will soak into the bread and give the casserole its French toast-like texture.

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Step 5: Pour the Custard Over the Layers

Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled layers in the baking dish. Press down gently with a spatula or your hands to help the bread absorb the liquid. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor and texture.

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Step 6: Bake the Casserole

If refrigerated, bring the casserole to room temperature for about 20–30 minutes. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set (a knife inserted should come out clean).

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Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving. Optionally, serve with a small dollop of raspberry jam or a drizzle of maple syrup for that classic Monte Cristo flavor contrast.

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Notes

This casserole is very forgiving and can be adjusted based on what you have. Swap the meats for leftover roasted chicken or even bacon, and try using a mix of Swiss and cheddar for a sharper flavor. If you’re preparing it the night before, give it a good press before refrigerating to help the custard soak evenly. You can also bake it and then reheat slices in the oven or toaster oven for a crispy next-day breakfast.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using very fresh bread: Fresh bread tends to get too soggy. Let it dry out slightly or toast the slices briefly.
• Not letting the casserole rest: Whether pre-bake or post-bake, rest time is essential for texture.
• Skipping the foil: The top will over-brown before the center is cooked if you don’t cover it first.
• Overloading with custard: Make sure your bread can absorb the liquid. If it pools excessively, you might need slightly less custard or a longer rest.
• Uneven layering: Distribute meats and cheese consistently so every bite is flavorful.

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Storage Instructions

Once baked and cooled, the casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through. For freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: ~430
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Cholesterol: 215mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! It actually benefits from an overnight rest in the fridge. Just bake it the next morning.

What kind of bread works best?

Brioche, challah, or any rich, slightly stale bread with a firm crumb works great.

Can I use different cheese?

Absolutely. Gruyère, sharp cheddar, or provolone all work well depending on your flavor preference.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The top should be golden and puffed, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, simply skip the meats or replace them with sautéed veggies like mushrooms or spinach.

Is it sweet or savory?

It’s both! The casserole is predominantly savory, but the powdered sugar and optional jam add a sweet contrast.

How should I serve it?

Dust with powdered sugar and offer raspberry jam or maple syrup on the side for dipping.

Can I freeze it after baking?

Yes. Cool it completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

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Conclusion

The Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is the ideal combination of convenience, indulgence, and comforting flavor. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or just want a cozy breakfast ready to go, this dish hits all the right notes. With its buttery layers, creamy custard, savory fillings, and that perfect kiss of sweetness, it brings diner-style magic to your own kitchen with minimal fuss. Serve it once, and it’ll become a repeat favorite.

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