Description
Start your morning with this cozy and irresistible Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole, a satisfying twist on the classic sandwich. With layers of tender ham and turkey, gooey Swiss cheese, and buttery brioche soaked in a savory-sweet custard, this make-ahead casserole is ideal for quick breakfast prep, brunch gatherings, or even easy dinner ideas. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and a touch of maple or jam, it hits the perfect balance of salty and sweet. This easy recipe will become your go-to comfort food idea when you want something indulgent and impressive without all the hassle.
Ingredients
14–16 oz brioche or challah bread, sliced thick
8 oz sliced deli ham
8 oz sliced deli turkey
2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
6 large eggs
2 1/2 cups whole milk
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp maple syrup
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
2 tbsp unsalted butter, for greasing
Powdered sugar, for garnish
Raspberry jam or preserves, optional for serving
Instructions
1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) if baking right away.
2. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick slices. Place a layer in the baking dish, slightly overlapping.
3. Add half the ham, then half the turkey, followed by half the cheese. Repeat with another bread layer and the remaining meat and cheese.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth.
5. Slowly pour the custard mixture over the casserole, pressing down to help absorb. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight.
6. If refrigerated, let it come to room temperature. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 20–25 minutes until golden and set.
7. Let cool 10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with raspberry jam or maple syrup if desired.
Notes
Use slightly stale bread or toast fresh slices briefly to prevent sogginess.
You can swap out meats or cheeses based on what you have—leftover chicken or cheddar also works great.
Resting the casserole overnight gives the best texture and flavor absorption.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
Keywords: monte cristo breakfast casserole, easy breakfast ideas, savory french toast bake, holiday brunch recipe