Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a crispy, golden, and cheesy morning masterpiece that combines the indulgence of a classic Monte Cristo sandwich with the comfort of a breakfast bake. Bursting with layers of ham, turkey, melty Swiss cheese, and soft bread soaked in a rich custard, this casserole hits all the right flavor notes. Sweet, savory, and utterly irresistible, this dish is perfect for lazy weekend mornings or holiday brunches. You’ll learn how to assemble, bake, and customize this flavorful casserole for maximum taste and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about the contrast in textures in Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole. The bread becomes soft and custardy inside while crisping up slightly on top. Melted Swiss cheese wraps around the layers of ham and turkey, creating a savory richness that pairs beautifully with a hint of sweetness from powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup. Unlike traditional breakfast casseroles, this recipe captures the playful flavors of the Monte Cristo sandwich, giving you a sophisticated yet simple brunch option. It’s easy to prep ahead of time, making mornings stress-free, and the combination of flavors feels decadent without being complicated. Whether serving family, friends, or holiday guests, this casserole is guaranteed to impress with its layers of cheesy, meaty goodness.

Ingredients

8 slices white or brioche bread, crusts removed
1 cup diced cooked ham
1 cup diced cooked turkey
1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for a warm flavor)
2 tablespoons butter, melted (for greasing)
Powdered sugar and maple syrup for serving

Pro Tips

Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better, giving the casserole a creamy center without turning soggy.
Layer Evenly: Spread cheese, ham, and turkey evenly between the bread layers to ensure every bite has a balanced flavor.
Custard Precision: Whisk eggs, milk, and cream thoroughly to prevent curdling. A smooth custard makes your casserole perfectly creamy.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter. This prevents sticking and adds a light golden finish to the casserole edges.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Cut bread slices into cubes or triangles, depending on your preferred presentation. If using brioche, it will provide an extra buttery flavor and softer texture.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients
Place half of the bread cubes in the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle half of the diced ham and turkey over the bread. Add half of the Swiss cheese evenly on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, ham, turkey, and cheese. Press down gently to compact the layers slightly.

Step 4: Make the Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, vanilla extract, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Make sure the mixture is smooth and homogenous for even custard soaking.

Step 5: Pour and Soak
Pour the custard evenly over the layered casserole. Use a spatula to gently press the bread cubes so they soak up the custard fully. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes for maximum absorption.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes. The top should be lightly golden and the custard fully set. Check with a knife inserted in the center; it should come out clean.

Step 7: Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before cutting. This lets the layers settle and makes slicing easier. Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup for that classic Monte Cristo flair.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Substitute ham and turkey with sautéed mushrooms and roasted red peppers.
Cheese Twist: Swap Swiss for Gruyère or cheddar for a stronger flavor.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning for a convenient brunch.

Storage and Serving

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.

Serving suggestions include pairing with fresh fruit, a side of crispy bacon, or a light salad for brunch. For a more indulgent touch, top each slice with extra powdered sugar and a drizzle of warm maple syrup.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole?
A: Yes, assemble but do not bake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra 10–15 minutes.

Q: Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
A: You can, but whole milk and cream create the best custard texture. Low-fat milk may result in a slightly less creamy casserole.

Q: How do I prevent soggy bread?
A: Use slightly stale bread and avoid over-soaking. Let it absorb custard for 10–15 minutes before baking.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Substitute with gluten-free bread. Ensure all other ingredients, like mustard, are gluten-free as well.

Q: Can I add herbs or spices?
A: Yes! A pinch of thyme or rosemary complements the ham and turkey flavors nicely without overpowering the sweet-savory balance.

Conclusion

This Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is comfort food at its finest — a layered breakfast delight that delivers cheesy, meaty, and custardy perfection in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that turns a simple morning into a memorable brunch, perfect for family gatherings or holiday celebrations. With its playful mix of textures and classic sweet-savory flavor, this casserole guarantees smiles and satisfied appetites.