Looking for a breakfast dish that combines all your favorite flavors into one irresistible bake? Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is the perfect option. This decadent casserole takes the beloved Monte Cristo sandwich filled with ham, turkey, cheese, and a dusting of powdered sugar and turns it into a savory breakfast or brunch treat. The layers of bread, eggs, meats, and cheese create a flavorful, hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. In this article, you’ll learn how to make this delicious casserole, including tips for customizing it to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole offers all the delicious components of a classic Monte Cristo sandwich without the need for frying. The combination of bread, deli meats, eggs, and melted cheese creates a rich, savory base, while a hint of sweetness from the syrup or powdered sugar adds depth to the dish. What sets this casserole apart is its versatility and ease. You can make it the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it in the morning, making it the perfect dish for holidays, brunch gatherings, or busy weekday mornings.

The casserole version of this dish allows for all the delicious layers of the Monte Cristo sandwich to meld together, creating a creamy, savory, and slightly sweet breakfast that is comforting and indulgent. With minimal prep time, it’s a great way to feed a crowd without spending all day in the kitchen. This dish also works well for customizing—whether you prefer ham, turkey, or a vegetarian option, you can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking.

Recipe Details

Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is inspired by the classic Monte Cristo sandwich, which traditionally features a combination of ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and a dusting of powdered sugar. In casserole form, the components come together in a rich and creamy dish that’s baked until golden and bubbly. The casserole starts with layers of bread (either French toast or sandwich bread) that are soaked in a custard-like egg mixture. This forms the base for the ham, turkey, and cheese filling.

The beauty of this dish lies in its layers. As it bakes, the bread absorbs the egg mixture, becoming soft and custardy, while the meats and cheese melt together, infusing the dish with flavor. The key to making this casserole special is the addition of a touch of sweetness, which is characteristic of the Monte Cristo sandwich. Some versions of the casserole include a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top, while others serve it with syrup for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.

This dish is not only flavorful but incredibly easy to prepare. You can assemble it the night before, refrigerate it, and then bake it in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast. It’s an excellent option for large gatherings, brunches, or holiday mornings when you need to feed a crowd without much fuss.

Nutritional Information for Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and indulgent breakfast dish, so it’s important to enjoy it in moderation. A typical serving contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the portion size and the ingredients used. The casserole is rich in protein, thanks to the eggs and deli meats, with about 25-30 grams of protein per serving. It also provides a good amount of healthy fats from the cheese and eggs.

The bread used in the casserole contributes carbohydrates, which provide energy for the day. While this dish is indulgent, you can make some adjustments to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor. For example, you can use whole wheat bread for added fiber, or opt for lean turkey and low-fat cheese to reduce the calorie and fat content. You can also use a dairy-free milk alternative for a lighter version of the custard.

For a more balanced version, you can serve the casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to add more vitamins and fiber. Although the dish is not particularly low-calorie, it’s packed with protein and energy, making it a great option for a filling breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients for Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

To make Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

1 loaf of French bread or sandwich bread, cut into cubes
6 large eggs
1 ½ cups milk (whole milk, almond milk, or any milk of your choice)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced
1 ½ cups cooked turkey, diced
1 ½ cups Swiss cheese, shredded
½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Optional: powdered sugar or maple syrup for serving

These ingredients come together to create a rich and savory breakfast casserole. The bread forms the base, while the eggs and milk mixture creates the custard-like filling that binds everything together. The ham, turkey, and cheese layers provide the classic Monte Cristo flavors, while the butter adds a richness that makes the casserole extra indulgent.

If you want to add some vegetables, you can include sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach to the filling. You can also customize the cheese—Gruyère or mozzarella would work well if you prefer a different cheese. For those who want to make the casserole vegetarian, simply omit the ham and turkey and substitute with extra cheese or sautéed vegetables.

Equipment Needed for Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

To prepare Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

9×13-inch baking dish: This size works perfectly for layering the ingredients and baking the casserole.
Whisk: For beating the eggs and combining the milk and seasonings.
Mixing bowl: For combining the custard ingredients and tossing the bread cubes.
Sharp knife: To dice the meats and slice the bread.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula: For spreading the casserole layers evenly.

These tools are essential for preparing the casserole and ensure that the ingredients are properly mixed and baked evenly. A baking dish large enough to hold the casserole is important for allowing the layers to bake properly, and the whisk helps ensure the eggs and milk are well combined.

Pro Tips for Success

To make sure your Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly, follow these pro tips:

Use day-old bread: Slightly stale bread works better for this casserole, as it absorbs the egg mixture without getting soggy. If your bread is fresh, leave it out to dry out for a few hours before using it.
Let it rest: After assembling the casserole, let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or refrigerate overnight) before baking. This gives the bread time to absorb the custard mixture, ensuring a perfectly moist casserole.
Customize the filling: Feel free to mix up the meats or add sautéed vegetables to the casserole. Adding spinach, bell peppers, or onions will enhance the flavor and add more color to the dish.
Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes. If it starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning. Bake until the top is golden and the custard is set.

Instructions for Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

Prepare the Bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cube the bread into bite-sized pieces and place them evenly in the prepared dish.
Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to make sure the bread is soaked.
Add the Filling: Layer the diced ham, turkey, and shredded Swiss and cheddar cheeses on top of the soaked bread. Spread the layers evenly, ensuring each bite will have a good balance of meat and cheese.
Bake: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard has set.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.

Recipe Variations for Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham and turkey and substitute with extra cheese or sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
Add More Cheese: For a cheesier casserole, increase the amount of cheese or use a mix of different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella.
Spicy Version: Add some jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the custard mixture for a bit of heat.

Storage & Serving Guide

Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just make sure it’s fully cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, simply place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

This casserole is perfect for serving with a side of fresh fruit, a green salad, or even a cup of hot coffee. It’s a great dish for holiday breakfasts, weekend brunches, or any time you want a filling and delicious meal to share with family and friends.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it in the morning.
Can I use different types of bread?
Yes, you can use French bread, brioche, or even whole wheat bread for a healthier option.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping and freezing.
Can I add other meats?
Absolutely! You can use bacon, sausage, or even a combination of meats in place of the ham and turkey.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free bread and adjust the other ingredients to suit your needs.

Conclusion

Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish for a hearty breakfast or brunch. With layers of savory meat, creamy cheese, and custard-soaked bread, it’s a comforting and delicious treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday morning or a weekend brunch, this casserole is sure to impress. Make it ahead of time, bake it in the morning, and enjoy a flavorful breakfast with minimal effort.